5 Genetic Conditions Families Should Worry About
The disease is always a reason to worry as it can cause pain and lower the quality of life. Some conditions can even be fatal and cut short one's lifespan. Unfortunately, many medical conditions run in families as they pass on from one generation to the next. The most daunting thing about them is that you cannot do anything to stop them from being inherited. However, you may lower the risk and manage the disease more effectively with timely intervention. But everything boils down to awareness. Let us highlight some genetic conditions families should worry about.
Heart disease
Heart disease is among the leading causes of fatalities in the US. Heart-related conditions such as coronary artery disease (CAD) and hypertension run in families, so you may be at risk if your parents, siblings, or relatives have them. The good thing is that you can manage the risk by adopting a healthy lifestyle and being vigilant about the red flags. A healthy lifestyle entails eating healthy meals, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining an optimal weight. Regular health checks keep you ahead of the red flags.
Cancer
Another genetic condition that families should worry about is cancer. The disease occurs in various forms, with lung, prostate, and breast cancer being the most common inherited ones. Besides genes, your lifestyle choices and environmental factors may also contribute to cancer. You can reduce the possibility by embracing a healthy routine. At the same time, regular screenings can help with timely diagnosis and treatment, which can be life-saving.
Fanconi anemia
Besides organ cancers, leukemia is another severe form of cancer that may affect families through generations. The chances of leukemia are high if you have fanconi anemia running in your family. It is a blood disorder that prevents the bone marrow from making enough blood cells. Alternatively, it may produce abnormal types of blood cells. Patients may only survive for 20 to 30 years. However, treatment options like gene therapy and stem cell transplant may help.
Asthma
Asthma is a complex heritable disease, which means that a number of genes contribute toward a person's susceptibility. The lung disease can cause breathing issues, coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness on exposure to triggers such as air pollutants, smoke, allergies, exercise, smoke, mold, dust mites, and animals. You can manage the condition by recognizing your triggers and limiting exposure. Also, having your medication at hand is crucial.
Diabetes
Diabetes is another genetic condition that may affect all generations of a family, though environmental and lifestyle factors may also play a role. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are chronic and require timely diagnosis and treatment. It can lead to dire complications such as blindness, heart disease, and kidney failure if not managed properly. Lifestyle management is the best defense, so you must limit your sugar and fat intake, stay active, prevent obesity, skip the stress, and get regular treatment.
Keeping track of your family health history is crucial as it enables you to understand your genetic risks. Timely diagnosis and intervention can be lifesavers, so you must be aware of your risk and take a proactive approach to disease management.
