Question

What is the main purpose of creating a family health tree?

Answer 1

A family health tree is a tool used to inform of increased likelihood of disease or illness due to genetic predisposition. It allows an individual to trace disease and other health problems back through a family tree, and be able to fully understand the various health issues he/she may be more vulnerable to due to increased risk. Specifically, heart disease is a common health problem that people suffer from, and a family health tree can allow one to interpret how much they be at risk, and then implement countermeasures and changes in their life to combat this risk, such as improved diet, increased exercise, better lifestyle choices etc.