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 son also has HAE. He hasn't had his first attack yet, but when he does it will be very different than mine because we have the HAE community to walk with us.
Liz, Living with 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
