CLEVELAND (WKBN) - As the holiday season approaches, the Cleveland Clinic urges individuals to take advantage of gatherings with family members to gain a better understanding of their medical history. Experts emphasize that being aware of potential health risks can prove vital for both prevention and treatment strategies.

Doctors at the renowned Cleveland Clinic stress that now is an opportune time to engage in discussions about the family's medical background. This dialogue can provide valuable insights into potential health conditions that may run in the family, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being.

Dr. Charis Eng, a geneticist at Cleveland Clinic, highlights the importance of using family gatherings as opportunities to delve into medical histories. She explains, "When the family gathers, it's almost natural to bring up, 'How's Grandma? Oh, I remember you told me about uncle so-and-so who died very suddenly at a young age. What happened?' Family histories do inform us about our future."

By gaining knowledge about family medical histories, individuals are more equipped to assess their risk for various diseases, including cancer and other health problems. In the event that a family history of certain conditions is discovered, experts strongly advocate considering genetic counseling as a proactive measure.

Genetic counseling involves meeting with a genetic counselor, either individually or as a family, to discuss potential medical concerns based on the family's history. The counselor evaluates the information and determines whether genetic testing is necessary. Moreover, they provide guidance on interpreting the results and offer additional support.

Understanding one's genetic predispositions can play a crucial role in making informed decisions regarding prevention techniques, lifestyle choices, and treatment plans. Genetic counselors work together with individuals and families to help navigate these decisions and guide them towards optimal health outcomes.

The Cleveland Clinic's emphasis on utilizing the holiday season for conversations about family medical histories aims to empower individuals to take charge of their health. By proactively addressing potential risks, individuals can adopt preventive measures that lead to healthier lives and ensure early detection and treatment if necessary.

As the holiday season approaches, it is important to seize this opportunity to uncover and understand one's family medical history. By utilizing the valuable information gained from these conversations, individuals can make educated decisions to safeguard their health and well-being.

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