Tis the season to talk about health.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is encouraging people to discuss their family’s health history when reuniting for the holidays.
Spokesperson with the department, Bob Wheaton said shared genes, lifestyles and behaviors can determine the risk of common diseases.
“It’s a good conversation for anyone to have,” Wheaton said. “It’s particularly important if you have had relatives who have had some of these diseases that can be passed on from one generation to another.”
Wheaton said individuals should then talk to their doctor about their history.
“Your doctor can take that (history) into account and evaluate any potential health risks you might have or recommend screening to prevent you from being affected by something that affects the family member,” Wheaton said.
Wheaton said now is a good time to get a flu shot, to protect your family from getting infected around the holidays.
