Follow several Michiana women who are ready to improve their health with the Go Red BetterU Heart Healthy Makeover Challenge. They will address their unique health obstacles as they take the 12-week challenge. By using BetterU, a free online tool that provides resources and tools, and receiving support from a team of experts, the women will be on their way to leading longer, healthier lives. Why not join BetterU today so you, too, can become a BetterU!

Friday, May 2, 2014

My mom had a heart attack .... will I?

Yes, and no. Family history is a strong predictor of heart disease and heart attack. However, there are many people who have a heart attack with NO family history and just as many people who DO NOT have any family members who have had a heart attack and still have a heart attack.

Look to your family tree as one predictor for heart disease.
What is your family health history? 

Your family's history is known as your family tree. The members of your family tree consist of your mom, dad, brother, sister, aunt or uncle and so forth. An example of how your family tree impacts you is if your mom has blue eyes and your dad has brown eyes you are more likely to inherit either blue or brown eyes It is unlikely you will have green eyes. However, it is possible depending on your family tree. This could happen if another member of your family, say your grandmother had green eyes. 

Now is a good time to examine your family tree when it comes to your health and wellness.

Your family's health and medical history also is also part of your family health tree. If any of your family members have had a heart attack then you are more likely to be at increased risk for having a heart attack. Women with a strong family history of heart disease are more likely to have a heart attack than the general population.

Knowing your family’s health history can help you avoid heart disease  – the No. 1 cause of death in America. 

Your family tree is not the only predictor of heart disease and heart attack. This week for Wellness Wednesday Getting Healthier Each Week this same question was discussed. To learn more about heart disease and the RISK FACTORS you CAN CONTROL & the one's you CAN NOT CONTROL click here 

There are may things you can do to help protect your heart health like choosing healthy foods, choosing to become just a little bit more active, to stop smoking and visit your doctor to evaluate your heart disease risk factors. When you do go for you medical check-up be sure to let your doctor know your family health history, it could be life-saving.

The Go Red BetterU Challengers are using American Heart Association My Life Check Simple 7. Take the test and let us know your Heart Attack Risk Score! To take the test click here.

Your partner in health,






Cindy Cohen RN
Certified Health Coach
Wellness Consultant

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