1. World problems
  2. Consanguineous marriage

Consanguineous marriage

  • Inbreeding

Nature

Marriages of blood relatives give rise to certain increased risks in the offspring. These risks arise both for traits controlled by recessive genes and those determined by polygenes. In either case, the result is to expose a proportion of the otherwise largely hidden component in human genetic variability.

Incidence

Studies have shown little difference between the outcome of consanguineous and control marriages up to and including birth. From birth onwards, however, the findings are different; in a certain Japanese city a death-rate of 116 per 1000 was found during the first 8 years of life amongst the offspring of first cousins, against 55 amongst the controls. The proportion of major congenital abnormalities for children born of consanguineous parents was almost twice that of the others. In an American city, with a lower total death-rate, amongst the offspring of consanguineous unions the death-rate by the age of 10 years was 81 per 1000 compared with 24 per 1000 in the controls. The problem is not an urgent one in communities in which the rate of first-cousin marriages has already fallen to a low figure (below 3 per 1000), but in many parts of the world consanguineous marriages represent a rather high proportion of the total marriages. The likelihood of such marriages occurring increases in societies where the family size is large, in physically or culturally isolated communities (including small islands, inaccessible mountain valleys, sectarian communities).

Claim

Consanguineous marriage poses a significant public health risk, perpetuating genetic disorders and compromising the well-being of future generations. The practice, often rooted in cultural traditions, can lead to a higher incidence of inherited diseases, reduced genetic diversity, and increased healthcare costs. It is imperative to raise awareness and promote education about the potential consequences of such unions. Addressing this issue is crucial for safeguarding the health of communities and ensuring a healthier future for all.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Counter-claim

Consanguineous marriage, often criticized for potential genetic risks, is not a significant problem in today's diverse society. Many cultures have thrived with such unions for centuries, fostering strong familial bonds and cultural continuity. The focus should be on education and healthcare rather than stigmatizing personal choices. Genetic counseling can mitigate risks, making the issue manageable. Ultimately, love and mutual respect in relationships should take precedence over unfounded fears about consanguinity.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Broader

Aggravates

Aggravated by

Related

Illegal marriage
Presentable
Incest
Yet to rate

Strategy

Inbreeding
Yet to rate

Value

Inbreeding
Yet to rate

Reference

Metadata

Database
World problems
Type
(D) Detailed problems
Biological classification
N/A
Subject
  • Biosciences » Genetics
  • Society » Family
  • Society » Marriage
  • Content quality
    Presentable
     Presentable
    Language
    English
    1A4N
    C2379
    DOCID
    11323790
    D7NID
    139511
    Last update
    Oct 4, 2020