“My Mom has diabetes. It runs in the family.”
“Cancer runs in the family.”
“Its genetic.”
Sound familiar? These words and similar phrases often come up in conversation, but what do you really know about what runs in your family?
For Black mothers, knowing your family health history can be a powerful tool for preventing or managing inherited conditions.
November 28th is the commemorative day to address this very important family topic, but the conversation has to continue far past the Thanksgiving dinner table.
If you’re wondering how to figure this out, here are a few ideas:
Ask Questions
You might remember seeing your great grandmother constantly going for check ups, or your Dad having to take a particular pill once a day, since you were a kid. Ask family members who are close to them, or if they are still alive and willing-what their ailments are. One story, in may cases tends to lead to another and organic, yet useful insight often results from this.
Take Tests
Tests such as cancer screenings, mental health evaluation questionnaires and certain blood tests reveal your risks for diseases that may run in the family.
Make Peace, But Take Action
If after these tests or a conversation tangible information i not provided or in worse case scenario there are detections of hereditary diseases, don’t panic. Speaking to a healthcare provider could assist you in coming up with a prevention or treatment plan that best suits you and your needs.
