When it comes to things that families may not want to pass down to future generations, medical issues are often at the top of the list. One in five parents have stated that their child has been diagnosed with a hereditary condition, and nearly half have concerns about their child potentially developing such a condition. These findings come from a recent national poll conducted by the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health.
The poll also revealed that two-thirds of parents want their healthcare provider to suggest ways to prevent their child from developing a health problem that runs in the family. “This report highlights the importance of parents being equipped with accurate information about their family health history,” says Mott Poll co-director Sarah Clark, M.P.H. “Parents play a crucial role in understanding and addressing their child’s health concerns, including those related to hereditary conditions.”
The nationally representative report is based on 2,057 responses from parents of children aged one to 18 years surveyed in February 2024.
Understanding Health History to Reduce Risk
According to the poll, a quarter of parents have asked healthcare providers to test or examine their child for conditions based on their family history, and 7% have sought genetic testing for their child. Parents expressed concerns about their child being at higher risk for allergies, mental health conditions, ADHD, obesity, heart disease, cancer, alcoholism, autoimmune conditions, autism, or other chronic conditions based on their family history.
While a quarter of parents believe they can prevent their child from developing a condition that runs in the family, family health history can help identify children with a higher-than-usual chance of having common medical disorders. These disorders, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, certain cancers, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, are influenced by genetic factors, environmental conditions, and lifestyle choices.
When parents have knowledge of their child’s family health history, they can take steps to reduce their child’s risk, such as early screenings, genetic counseling, promoting healthy eating and exercise habits, and being aware of possible signs and symptoms. “Having a hereditary predisposition to an illness may prompt parents to be more vigilant with certain choices,” says Clark. “A child’s pediatrician can help optimize their health and prevent some of the illnesses experienced by their family members.”
Concerns About Mental Health History
The poll also found that parents feel slightly more knowledgeable about their child’s family health history for medical conditions than for mental health conditions. Parents of older children reported discussing family medical history more often than family mental health history with their child.
Clark notes that reluctance to openly discuss a family’s mental health history may stem from the stigma associated with mental health across generations and cultures. She suggests that parents normalize discussions about mental health by incorporating them into everyday conversations and encouraging open and honest communication within the family about mental health.
Empowering Young People to Take Control
Many parents polled believe that their children aged 12-18 could fill out a form about their family health history with their help. As children approach adulthood and prepare to live independently, it becomes crucial for them to be knowledgeable about their family health history.
“Family history may be essential for healthcare providers to make informed decisions about treatment options,” says Clark. “Encouraging adolescents to learn about their family health history early on can empower them to take control of their health and make informed decisions throughout their lives.”
