Why cousin marriage is a genetic gamble | Mohammed Jakir Hosen | TEDxCOU

Core Argument - Consanguineous marriage, particularly among cousins, increases the risk of genetic disorders in offspring due to the higher probability of inheriting recessive genes [2][6] - While consanguinity is prevalent globally, it is notably higher in Arab countries and Muslim communities, with Pakistan having over 50% of marriages between cousins [10][11] - Increased awareness, premarital genetic screening, and newborn screening are crucial interventions to mitigate the risks associated with consanguineous marriages [15][16][19] Genetic Risks and Examples - Offspring of consanguineous marriages have a 25% chance of being affected by autosomal recessive diseases [6][14] - Historical examples, such as the Habsburg family, demonstrate how inbreeding can lead to serious genetic diseases and the decline of a bloodline [8] - Conditions like Meckel-Gruber syndrome, a fatal genetic disorder, are linked to consanguinity, resulting in severe fetal abnormalities and death [9] Regional Prevalence and Cultural Factors - Consanguineous marriage rates vary significantly by country, with higher rates observed in Arab and Muslim communities [10] - Cultural factors, including attraction, love, status, and wealth preservation, contribute to the practice of consanguineous marriage [11] - In Bangladesh, studies indicate consanguinity rates ranging from 4% to 10%, with higher rates in certain regions [12] Impact on Child Health - Under-five child mortality rates are significantly higher in consanguineous families compared to non-consanguineous families [13] - Miscarriage rates are also significantly elevated in consanguineous families [14] - Children from consanguineous families are approximately three times more likely to be affected by genetic diseases such as thalassemia, disability, and asthma [14] Solutions and Prevention Strategies - Premarital carrier screening is essential to identify potential genetic risks in partners and for future generations [15] - Newborn screening can help detect enzyme deficiencies or hormone imbalances early, enabling prompt intervention [16] - Public awareness campaigns are vital to educate communities about the risks associated with consanguineous marriage [16] Success Stories - Cyprus successfully reduced the incidence of thalassemia through a 25-year policy-level initiative involving screening, mandatory prenatal testing, and DNA screening [17][18] - The number of thalassemia births in Cyprus decreased from approximately 30 per year to 2-3 per year through these interventions [17][18]