Training & Education - Family-based Detection

The family history may be used as a public health tool to identify individuals at risk for disease and thereby facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of those potentially affected.

 

"We see so many people in whom the diagnosis of hemochromatosis is made too late – after irreversible damage has already occurred. It’s vital that people with hemochromatosis urge family members to get tested immediately. Then, if the condition is detected, treatment can be instituted to prevent organ dysfunction."

Pradyumna D. Phatak, MD, FACP
Chief, Hematology/ Medical Oncology
Rochester General Hospital

 

 

 

In the absence of genetic testing, family history can be used as a tool to determine risk for common chronic diseases and thereby identify individuals with increased disease susceptibility.

Content in this module includes:

• Family history as a tool to identify family members at risk.
• Downloadable information for patients and their families.
• Usefulness and limitations of genetic testing.
• Basic genetic counseling.

 

   Treatment & Management Summary    Patient and Their Family