Note: This factsheet has been designed as a post-session handout for learners taking part in a Genomics Game session, but can also be used as learning resources in other settings. See the full collection here.
Key facts
- A medical family history provides health information of an individual and their closest relatives.
- A genetic family history shows how family members are related to each other and any medical conditions they may have.
- It is usually presented in a pictorial diagram, using a collection of specific symbols and lines so that the diagram can be read by anyone.
- By drawing a genetic family history of an individual and their close family members, it may be possible to identify patterns or clues that could indicate an inherited condition.
Did you know?
- Taking a genetic family can often be an appropriate first course of action if an individual is worried that there is an inherited condition in their family.
- Clinical clues from a family history that could indicate a genetic condition include:
- an unusual presentation;
- a condition known to run in families; or
- a young person with a condition associated with later life.
- Information from a genetic family history could also help to provide a diagnosis or inform effective treatment strategies.
Find out more
To view videos on how to take and draw a genetic family history, visit our family history page.
