On Aug. 26, 2024, the University of Michigan (UM) announced that one in five parents say their child has been diagnosed with a hereditary condition, and almost half were concerned about their child potentially developing such a condition, according to the Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health.

“This report reflects the need for parents to be equipped with accurate information about their family health history,” said Mott Poll co-director Sarah Clark, M.P.H.

The nationally representative report is based on 2,057 responses of parents of children ages one to 18 years surveyed in February 2024. Two thirds of parents want their healthcare provider to suggest ways to prevent their child from developing a health problem that runs in the family.

These are complex disorders influenced by a combination of genetic factors, environmental conditions, and lifestyle choices, Clark says. 

When parents have knowledge of their child’s family health history, she says, they can take steps to reduce their child’s risk, such as early screenings, genetic counseling, encouraging healthy eating and exercise habits, and being aware of possible signs and symptoms. 

Parents think family history puts their child at a higher risk for having common medical disorders, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, certain cancers, obesity, and type 2 diabetes as well as allergies, mental health conditions, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, alcoholism and other chronic conditions. But a quarter of parents think they can prevent their child from developing a condition that runs in the family.

“Family history may be crucial for healthcare providers to make informed decisions about treatment options,” Clark said. “Encouraging adolescents to learn about their family health history early on can also empower them to take control of their health and make informed decisions throughout their lives.”