Science and Technology Science and Technology

NHS trust describes cousin marriages as 'cultural practice' and compares it to 'white women having children over 34 years old'


Published on 2024-12-12 04:03:34 - MSN
  Print publication without navigation

  • An NHS Trust has compared marriage between first cousins to white women having children over the age of 34. Material drawn up by Bradford health chiefs in 2022 describes cousin marriages as a "cultural practice" and likens it to white women and couples starting families later.

The article discusses a report by the NHS Trust which controversially compares cousin marriages, often seen in certain cultural communities, to white women having children over the age of 34. The report, which has sparked debate, suggests that both practices carry similar genetic risks for offspring. It highlights that cousin marriages, prevalent in some South Asian communities, are viewed as a cultural practice rather than a health concern, despite the known increased risk of genetic disorders. Critics argue that this comparison oversimplifies complex genetic and cultural issues, potentially downplaying the health risks associated with consanguineous marriages. The NHS Trust's approach aims to address these issues through education and genetic counseling rather than outright discouragement of the practice.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-gb/society-culture-and-history/social-issues/nhs-trust-describes-cousin-marriages-as-cultural-practice-and-compares-it-to-white-women-having-children-over-34-years-old/ar-AA1vIw9C ]