What should I do with family health history information that I collect?

Answer:

First, write down the information you collect about your family health history and share it with your health care professional. If you have recently changed providers make sure to bring your records to your new health care provider.

Second, remember to keep this information updated and share information about your health condition with your relatives.

Third, pass it on to your children, so that they too will have a family history record.

To record your family's health history you can print out a brochure that includes a form:

• English: http://www.hhs.gov/familyhistory/downloads/MyFamilyHealthPortrait--English.pdf
• Spanish: http://www.hhs.gov/familyhistory/downloads/MyFamilyHealthPortrait--Spanish.pdf

OR, visit My Family Health Portrait to create a personalized family health history report from any computer with an internet connection;

•  English: http://familyhistory.hhs.gov/
• Spanish: http://familyhistory.hhs.gov/spanish/

OR, download software onto your computer:

• English: http://www.hhs.gov/familyhistory/download.html
• Spanish: http://www.hhs.gov/familyhistory/download_spanish.html

Last Updated: 04/21/2008