Learn about the
genetics of HAE
Does HAE run in families?
HAE is inherited
Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is usually in the family tree, which is why the word “hereditary” is used in the name “hereditary angioedema.” If one parent has HAE, each child will have a 50% risk of inheriting the condition. If a child does not inherit the disease from his or her parents, he or she will not pass it on to future generations.
Did you know?
In a survey from 2010, HAE patients had an average of 2 immediate and 2 extended family members who had also been diagnosed with HAE.* This means that as a diagnosed patient, you may have family members who also have HAE.
My husband and I know HAE is a lifelong condition, so that really motivated us to get our son on a management plan that was right for him as soon as possible.
Beth, Living with HAE and caring for her son who has HAE
HAE isn't always inherited
HAE is often passed down from a parent, but that's not always the case. Some people develop HAE because of a spontaneous change in their genetic code, so it can't be traced to their family tree.
75%
Inherited gene
25%
No family history