Know Your Family Health History Before 40

We’re all familiar with basic health habits – eating well, staying active, and getting regular checkups. But there’s one often-overlooked step: knowing your family’s health history.

Why Does Family Health History Matter?

If a close relative, like a parent, sibling, or grandparent, has had breast cancer, ovarian cancer or other glandular cancers, your own risk of developing those conditions can increase significantly.

This history can change how your doctor approaches your care. It may determine when you start screenings, whether genetic testing is recommended, and which conditions your doctor monitors closely.

Family History and Breast Cancer Risk

Breast cancer is a key example of how family history impacts health decisions. Women with a first-degree relative, on either side, who has had breast cancer have a higher lifetime risk of developing it themselves.

This has practical implications. Women with higher risk may start annual mammograms earlier than age 40 and may also be referred for genetic testing.

It’s also important to note that most women diagnosed with breast cancer don’t have a family history of the disease. While family history raises risk, its absence doesn’t guarantee protection, which is why annual mammograms starting at age 40 are recommended for average risk women.

How to Learn Your Family’s Health History

Start with close relatives – parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and grandparents – and ask about diagnoses, including the type of condition and the age at diagnosis. Be sure to gather information from both sides of the family, as both are equally relevant.

What to Document

Record the condition, the age at diagnosis, and whether it’s from your mother’s or father’s side. Use a simple document or health app to organize the information. The more details you gather, the more useful it will be for your doctor.

Share Your Family History with Your Doctor

A detailed family history helps your physician assess your risks, recommend screenings, and determine whether genetic testing is appropriate.

Your History Is Your Power

Knowing your family health history is one of the most impactful steps you can take for yourself and future generations. Document what you learn, partner with your doctor, and schedule screenings tailored to your risks. At Solis Mammography, our team of breast health experts are here to support you every step of the way. Schedule your mammogram today.