If you have a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or stroke, your risk of developing these conditions may be higher too. But knowing your risk means you can take action early — and that’s powerful.
What Does ‘Family History’ Really Mean?
A family history means your blood relatives have (or had) certain health conditions. This includes parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, or cousins. If someone in your family died from a heart attack or stroke, that’s part of your family health story too.
Family History vs. Inherited Condition
It’s good to know the difference:
✅ Family History — means you share genes and sometimes lifestyle habits with your family, which can increase your risk.
✅ Inherited Condition — means a specific gene change has been passed down, which directly causes the condition.
For example, inherited heart conditions include:
- Cardiomyopathies (heart muscle diseases)
- Channelopathies (abnormal heart rhythms)
- Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) (high cholesterol that runs in families)
Do You Have a Strong Family History?
Doctors usually say you have a strong family history if:
- Your dad or brother was under 55 when they were diagnosed.
- Your mum or sister was under 65 when they were diagnosed.
Why Lifestyle Still Matters
It’s not just genes — families often share habits too:
🏠 Living in the same area (pollution can affect heart health).
🍲 Eating the same foods (lots of salt, oil, sugar, and alcohol can raise risk).
🚬 Smoking or living with smokers.
😓 High stress levels.
How To Reduce Your Risk
The good news? Small changes add up. You can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by:
✅ Quitting smoking
✅ Staying active
✅ Eating more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
✅ Reducing salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats
✅ Managing your weight
✅ Checking your blood pressure and cholesterol
✅ Managing diabetes if you have it
Tell Your Doctor
Don’t keep your family history to yourself. Even if you feel fine, tell your GP if a close relative has had a heart attack or stroke. They can:
- Check your blood pressure and cholesterol
- Recommend lifestyle changes
- Prescribe medication if needed
If you’re aged 40–74 and live in England, you’re entitled to a free NHS Health Check — a simple way to see if you’re at risk. Other UK regions have similar checks too. Ask your GP or local pharmacy.
✅ Key Takeaway
Knowing your family history isn’t about living in fear — it’s about protecting your future. You can’t change your genes, but you can change your lifestyle. Start small, stay informed, and keep your heart healthy — for yourself and for the next generation.
Join Our WhatsApp Channel
Stay updated on the latest UK news, including education, health, job openings, and more for those living in the UK!
Join here: Naija UK Channel
Also, follow us on our social media channels for the latest updates and discussions:
- Twitter: @NaijaUKConnect
- Facebook: Naija UK Connect
- Instagram: @naijaukconnect
