Though much is still not known about why some people get NTM lung disease and others do not, we do know that certain diseases can make someone more vulnerable to becoming infected.

Some of these underlying causes, such as Cystic Fibrosis and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, are genetic in origin and as such, usually run in families. Past generations did not have the advantages of testing for genetic markers of these diseases; however, knowing the symptoms that might have shown up in previous generations of your family can also provide clues to possible underlying susceptibility to infection.

Below are links to resources which can help you build a family medical history:

Family Health History form (American Medical Association)

My Family Health Portrait (U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Resources)

Family Health History form (free online resource)