Know Your Genetics

Two important things you can do to manage your health are learn your family’s medical history and get screened and tested for genetic disorders.

Your family history of medical illnesses and your DNA can help determine your likelihood of developing certain medical conditions and passing them down to your children.

That’s why genetic screening and testing matter. They enable you to proactively pursue treatment early for diagnosed conditions. They help you better manage your health and the health of your children. And they empower you to live a healthier life.

How We Help

Cook County Department of Public Health is committed to helping families live healthier lives.  Our public health nurses provide education and help increase awareness about the importance of family health history and genetic risk.  We conduct outreach and direct follow-up with families who are at risk of having genetic disorders. 

 More specifically we:

• Identify genetic risks by collecting health histories and demographic data.
• Help families complete the state of Illinois’ Red Flags 4 Genetics Screening to determine if a person should be referred for genetic testing or counseling.
• Follow up with families who need genetic screenings or tests.
• Refer families at risk of genetic disorders to medical providers.
• Provide emotional support throughout the entire screening process.

For more information, contact our public health nursing division at [email protected].

Additional Resources

• IDPH’s Genetics Program
• Genomics providers in Illinois
• Genomics fact sheets
• Genetic counseling
• The Norton & Elaine Sarnoff Center for Jewish Genetics
• “Red Flags for Genetics” Checklist [ENGLISH | SPANISH]