Marriage Within Close Relatives
Many communities world wide practice marriages within first/second cousins or close relatives (uncle-niece etc.). This could stem from a long-standing trust between the two families, comfort of similar upbringing and a hope of strengthened family ties ensuring marital harmony.
However; there is a medical implication underlying it. We all carry two copies of genes – one inherited from the mother and one from the father. An aberration in any one gene will not result in a disease as the other “normal” gene will take over the function. Many of us are “carriers” of such genetic aberrations. These aberrations might not manifest themselves into any problem and hence we might be unaware of them. However, if two individuals carrying the aberration in the same gene try to conceive, they have higher chance of passing both aberrant genes to the unborn child. This child will no longer be a “silent carrier” but will suffer from the said disease.
Marriages within close communities therefore have a higher chance of passing genetic aberrations as their gene pool is common and may aberrations might be overlapping. Therefore, such couples can be offered “carrier screening” before conception. This can identify whether the couple is carrier of similar genetic conditions. This followed by detailed genetic counselling, can help the prospective couple make informed reproductive choices.
Dr. Ashwini Rathi is Director of Mumbai Fetal Medicine Centre, Irla Parimal society, Off Juhu lane. Andheri (W) and a consultant at Surya Mother and Child hospital, Santacruz.
For appointments please call – +91-8669227227.