National Family Health History Day: Know your risks, protect your family
November 28 is National Family Health History Day, a time dedicated to understanding how your family’s medical history shapes your own health and future. Established in 2004 by the U.S. Surgeon General, this day encourages families to gather, discuss, and record their health histories. For expats in Thailand, this day is also an excellent opportunity to take proactive steps for their family’s well-being, especially when living abroad, which introduces new health considerations.
Why family health history matters
Your family health history is more than just a list of conditions; it’s a powerful tool for predicting, preventing, and managing potential health risks. Conditions like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and hypertension often run in families. Knowing your family’s health background helps you and your healthcare providers take preemptive measures.
According to the CDC, knowing your family health history can guide your doctor’s recommendations for screenings and lifestyle adjustments, helping to address risks proactively through preventive care and healthier lifestyle choices.
How to create a family health history record
Start by reaching out to family members and recording essential information about their health conditions, age at diagnosis, and any lifestyle factors that may have influenced their health. Keep a record of chronic conditions, genetic disorders, and even mental health history, as some mental health issues have hereditary components. A detailed family health history gives doctors insights they wouldn’t have otherwise, enabling them to recommend personalised screenings and treatments.
Common hereditary health risks for expats in Thailand
In Thailand, expats face unique health challenges, especially in tropical climates. For example, respiratory issues can be exacerbated by seasonal air pollution in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, while heat-related illnesses are common for newcomers.
If your family has a history of respiratory or cardiovascular issues, make sure to take precautions with regular check-ups and preventive screenings, which comprehensive health insurance plans like Cigna’s often cover.
Limited-time offer: 10% off for life!
Get covered today and enjoy 10% off your health insurance policy!
T&Cs apply*
Preventive measures based on family health history
Once you’ve mapped your family’s health history, focus on preventive measures. Regular screenings, vaccinations, and healthy lifestyle choices are vital in reducing your risk. Many insurance plans cover preventive care, from vaccinations to annual check-ups and specialist consultations, which are crucial for managing potential hereditary conditions.
Cigna, for example, offers expat health plans that emphasise preventive care, ensuring you and your family stay ahead of any health concerns.
Access to quality healthcare in Thailand
Thailand boasts world-class private hospitals, especially in major cities, with English-speaking staff and top-notch facilities. However, healthcare costs at these facilities can be high, especially for chronic conditions or unexpected health emergencies. Having health insurance gives you access to these quality medical services without financial strain, allowing you to manage any hereditary health risks proactively.
Supporting mental health and wellness
Family health history also includes mental health factors, which are increasingly recognised as essential to overall wellness. Anxiety, depression, and other conditions can have genetic links. As an expat, adjusting to a new country can add layers of stress and homesickness, so it’s vital to have mental health support.
Insurance plans that cover therapy or counselling can help you manage your mental well-being, which is just as crucial as physical health.
Protecting your family with comprehensive health insurance
Knowing your health risks is a start, but health insurance is essential for managing them effectively. A comprehensive insurance plan supports regular screenings, preventive measures, and access to specialists, all of which help mitigate the risks associated with your family’s medical history.
Protect your family’s health now – before It’s too late
There’s no better time than now to secure your family’s health, ensuring you’re prepared for whatever the future holds. Health challenges can strike at any moment, especially in a new environment where factors like unfamiliar diseases and climate can increase risks. With Cigna’s expat health plans, you gain peace of mind knowing that you’re prepared to protect your loved ones, no matter what comes their way.
Key benefits of Cigna’s expat health plans:
- Routine preventive care: Coverage for annual check-ups and essential screenings.
- Chronic condition management: Ongoing support for hereditary or long-term health conditions.
- Mental health services: Access to therapy and counselling.
- Emergency and evacuation support: Financial protection in case of health emergencies, even if evacuation is needed.
Planning for your family’s health is one of the best ways to show you care. With Cigna’s tailored expat plans, you’ll have the resources needed to navigate healthcare in Thailand confidently, ensuring a secure and healthy future for you and your loved ones.
Limited-time offer: 10% off for life!
Get covered today and enjoy 10% off your health insurance policy!
T&Cs apply*
*Cigna Healthcare reserves the right to amend or withdraw a promotion at any time without notice. This promotion ends on November 30th, 2024. This 10% discount will apply for the lifetime of the policy and is only eligible to new Cigna Global Individual customers. The discount may only be applied by a sales agent and cannot be applied in conjunction with any other offer, except the 10% discount given to policies paid annually in full. If you choose to pay your policy annually in full, your 10% discount will be applied after the 10% annual discount has been applied. Only Cigna Global Individual Policies are eligible for the 10% discount. A minimum purchase value of $2000 for policies based in Europe is applicable. Policies based in the rest of the world require a minimum purchase value of $3000 to be eligible.
