Motivating intentions to adopt risk-reducing behaviours for chronic diseases: Impact of a public health tool for collecting family health histories

Abstract

Issues addressed: In the genomics era the use of valid and reliable tools for the collection of family health histories is proposed as a strategy for identifying those at higher risk of chronic disease and increasing the adoption of risk-modifying behaviours. This study investigated the impact of a collection tool for a Family Health History Program in Western Australia upon uptake of key health messages and intentions to adopt risk-reducing behaviours for chronic diseases. Methods: Initially a baseline population survey (n=1009) was undertaken to assess the collection of family health histories among adults and identify target populations for the tool. A targeted intercept survey (n=606) was then conducted with women to assess the tool. Results: Around half the respondents indicated they were motivated to adopt one or more risk-reducing behaviours as a result of their exposure to the tool. The odds of being motivated to do something related to family health history were significantly greater for women who liked the tool (AdjOR=3.1, 95%CI 2.1-4.5 ), thought it conveyed useful information (AdjOR=5.0, 95%CI 2.6-9.6), perceived family history to be more important than before they read the tool (AdjOR=3.4, 95%CI 2.3-4.9) and had not previously collected family health history information (AdjOR=1.8, 95%CI 1.1-3.0). Conclusion: At a whole-of-population level most adults consider family health history important, but few have actually recorded this information. The tool raised awareness of the importance of family health histories to personal health and was considered personally useful by most respondents. Key words: family history tool collection, chronic risk reduction