Virginia Gov. Timothy Kaine Recognizes November as Family Health History Month

By Malorie Burkett

In observance of Family Health History Month, Virginia Gov. Timothy Kaine and Virginia Commonwealth University are encouraging Virginians to learn more about their medical histories.

"There are many factors that affect health such as diet, exercise and lifestyle, but having an understanding of your basic genetics is key to ensuring a healthier future," Kaine said. "Understanding our family health history allows us to make healthy choices and helps reduce risks for chronic illnesses."

"Everyone should document their family medical history, and communication among family members is a start," said Joann Bodurtha, M.D., VCU professor of human genetics. "We are all products of genes, the environment and nurture. Each of these factors can give clues to medical conditions that may run in a family."

VCU offers lifespan services in genetics from preconception screening and prenatal diagnosis to collaboration in newborn screening follow-up, birth defects, child and adult genetic issues and familial cancer.

Services at VCU's genetics clinics include consultation by a team of board-certified medical geneticists and genetic counselors; screening, prevention and health management recommendations; information for other family members and discussion of and assistance in obtaining genetic testing.

According to Bodurtha, by noticing patterns of disorders among relatives, doctors and genetic counselors can determine whether an individual, other family members or future generations may be at an increased risk of developing a particular condition, such as heart disease, Alzheimer's, diabetes or cancer.

"Having an understanding of your basic genetics is a powerful tool," said Bodurtha. "Using this knowledge intelligently allows you to make healthy choices and helps determine preventive and advanced diagnostic medical options.

You don't know about your family health history unless you talk about it. The bottom line is if you know your family history, it could save your life."

Part of VCU's Massey Cancer Center, the Familial Cancer Clinic is the only one of its kind in the Richmond area. It was developed originally for individuals who have either a personal or family history of cancer and may have questions about it.

For more information about family health history and human genetics, call 804-828-9632, or visit http://www.massey.vcu.edu/pdf/FamilyHealthHistory.pdf for the family health history tool or http://www.gen.vcu.edu/patients/index.html.