A
5200 Harry Hines Blvd.
,
Dallas
,
TX
75235
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- Main Retail Café: Mon - Sun | 6:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.
- Starbucks Café: WISH Building | Mon - Fri | 5:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
- Park Market Café: Mon - Fri | 6:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. | 8 p.m. - 4 a.m. | Sat -Sun | 7 p.m. - 4 a.m.
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- Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Monday - Friday: 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.
- Saturday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sunday: Closed
- Holiday hours may be different
Posted: 11/24/2015
National Family History Day observed every Thanksgiving
As we prepare to enjoy fun times, football and feasts this Thanksgiving there’s another activity that should take place this holiday, one that could save a life later. Physicians at Parkland say the holidays or any other family gathering are the perfect time to talk about and write down health conditions that run in your family.
During National Family History Day, observed on Thanksgiving, instead of going back for seconds, learn about your family’s health history. It can help you ensure a longer, healthier future together.
“Many people don’t talk about health conditions during holiday get-togethers, but what better time to find out, because you’re often surrounded by generations of family members who can provide useful information,” said Noel Santini, MD, Medical Director and Chief of Adult Medicine for Community Medicine at Parkland. “Talking to family members and getting to know your family health history might help identify risks for diseases that run in your family. On many occasions some of these risks, if identified and managed early, can prevent the onset or worsening of certain medical conditions.”
Family members share genes, behaviors, lifestyles and environments that together may influence their health and risk of chronic disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Most people have a family health history of some chronic diseases such as cancer, coronary artery disease and diabetes, and health conditions including high blood pressure and high cholesterol. People who have a close family member with a chronic disease may have a higher risk of developing that disease than those without such a relative.
“Each time you go to a new healthcare provider you are asked about your family history,” Dr. Santini noted. “You may know that a sibling had a certain disease but not your parents or your grandparents simply because it’s not something that was regularly discussed. And, if it was discussed, sometimes it’s a matter of ‘I think this relative died of that, but I’m not sure.’ Knowing for certain may save your life.”
Family health history is a written or graphic record of the diseases and health conditions present in the family, according to the CDC. A useful family health history shows three generations of your biological relatives, the age at diagnosis, and the age and cause of death of deceased family members. Family health history information may help healthcare providers determine which tests and screenings are recommended to help family members know their health risk.
“So while you’re laughing, hugging and making precious memories with your family during the holiday season, ask those important health questions,” Dr. Santini said. “That piece of information may ensure you enjoy many more family gatherings.”
Want more Thanksgiving health tips? Learn how to enjoy Thanksgiving with Diabetes.