Genetic susceptibility, family history information and disease prevention in public health: type 2 diabetes as an example
Background
Predictive medicine or ‘risk medicine’ has become an increasing focus of interest through ongoing developments in the field of genetics. The shift from complaint-orientation to risk-orientation has far-reaching consequences for the way in which people think about illness and health, for their self-image, and also for the practical aspects of prevention and care. So far, genetic testing for susceptibility genes for many multifactorial diseases is not yet warranted in clinical practice. Family history is an important risk factor for many common chronic diseases that may be used as a surrogate marker for genetic susceptibility. A positive family history reflects the consequences of genetic predisposition, shared environment, and common behaviour. It is seen as a useful tool for disease prevention in public health and preventive medicine, tailoring behavioural messages. In this study type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is taken as an example. (see objectives)The project is funded by the Centre for Society and Genomics.