DEARBORN, Mich. -- When it comes to predicting future health problems, experts said family history is key.

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Tracking Health Through Family History

Margaret Smith has beaten cancer twice, but her battle didn't end there.

"I was devastated, I was scared, I was sick. Every time they say the word cancer to me I get scared, devastated, that's a scary word," said Smith.

Smith began to worry that her children and grandchildren could also be at risk. Dr. Julie Zenger Hain, a genetics expert at Oakwood Healthcare in Dearborn, Mich., had the answer to Smith's fears. It's a process called genetic risk assessment.

"The family medical history is really the best tool we have available to really determine someone's risk for developing disease," said Zenger Hain.

Zenger Hain said a Web site developed by the U.S. Surgeon's General's office can help you track your family's health history in a useful, simple way. The online tool is called "My Family Health Portrait," and it is free to use.

"Not only can you document your family history information on your own personal computer, but you have the ability to email it to another family member," said Zenger Hain. "You can also email it to your healthcare provider, so it can become part of your electronic medical record."

Experts said your doctor can use the information to determine if you need early screening for certain diseases or even preventative treatments.

Zenger Hain said it's information that could literally help save your life.

"Studies have been done, and show that around 90 percent of Americans know what runs in their family, though only about 30 percent actually do something with that information and share it with their doctors," said Zenger Hain.

Smith said the information she's learned has given her new peace of mind.

"When you know what's out there, and what's available to you, it's not going into the abyss anymore," said Smith. "There is a lot of hope."

To learn more about "My Family Health Portrait," click here.