Millions of Brits could be facing significantly higher risks of developing serious health conditions due to genetic factors present from birth, according to alarming new research.
A comprehensive survey of 2,000 UK adults has uncovered concerning gaps in public health awareness, with 55% of people remaining unaware of their family's medical history regarding major illnesses like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
The study, reported by the Express, also found that nearly half (49%) of British adults don't know their blood type, while a quarter are unaware if their relatives take regular medication. Even more worryingly, 49% couldn't inform paramedics which medications their loved ones would need during an emergency.
The Knowledge Gap in British Healthcare
Channel 4's Embarrassing Bodies specialist Dr Dawn Harper, who analysed the survey findings, expressed deep concern about the results. "It highlights a worrying gap in how little many people know about their own health history and that of their families," she commented.
Dr Harper continued: "It's surprising how often even basic details, such as hereditary conditions or long-term family health patterns, go unnoticed or unrecorded."
The research was conducted by MiCode, a company providing secure digital storage for health information. Professor James Ohene-Djan of MiCode described the findings as showing "a shocking gap in our national health knowledge."
Ten Hereditary Health Conditions You Need to Know About
Dr Harper has identified ten common and potentially fatal diseases with strong genetic links that Brits should be aware of.
High blood pressure affects many Britons, with Dr Harper noting it's a "multifactorial disease" with both lifestyle and genetic components. "Most people with high blood pressure don't get headaches or visual problems. Most have no symptoms at all," she warned, recommending regular checks from age 40, or earlier for those with family history.
High cholesterol is predominantly produced by the body rather than coming from diet, according to Dr Harper. She highlighted familial hypercholesterolaemia as a specific inherited condition that significantly increases risk.
Heart disease risk increases when close relatives have experienced heart attacks, particularly at a young age. Understanding family history enables individuals to make lifestyle adjustments to mitigate their risk.
Diabetes currently affects 4.6 million people in the UK, with an estimated 1.3 million remaining undiagnosed. Dr Harper emphasised that diabetes dramatically increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, and vision loss.
Osteoporosis has a particularly strong genetic link, often showing no symptoms until bones become dangerously fragile. Having a first-degree relative with the condition significantly increases personal risk.
Cancer in various forms - including breast, prostate, colon, ovarian, pancreatic, skin melanoma, stomach, uterine, kidney, thyroid, eye and brain cancers - all carry genetic risks. Dr Harper recalled meeting three sisters with a family history of breast cancer who underwent genetic testing, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health management.
Alzheimer's disease demonstrates clear genetic links, but lifestyle factors can influence risk. "Anything that is good for the heart is good for the brain," Dr Harper advised, recommending maintaining healthy weight, balanced diet, regular exercise, and mental challenges like puzzles or learning new languages.
Asthma and allergies show strong hereditary patterns. Knowing family allergy history becomes crucial during emergency medical situations.
Mental health issues including depression and anxiety often run in families. Those with genetic predisposition should prioritise mental wellbeing through exercise, nature exposure, stress management, and social connections.
Auto-immune diseases all carry genetic components. Awareness of family history helps GPs consider appropriate testing when symptoms emerge.
Taking Control of Your Genetic Health
Dr Harper challenged the fatalistic attitude some people adopt towards genetic risks. "Some may take the view that if something is 'in your genes,' there's little you can do about it, but I firmly believe that knowledge is power," she stated.
"Understanding your genetic predispositions gives you the chance to take control, to make informed decisions, adopt preventative habits, and in many cases, reduce your overall risk through simple lifestyle changes."
The research underscores the importance of Brits becoming more proactive about understanding their family medical history and taking appropriate preventative measures based on their genetic risks.
