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High consanguinity rate in Hungarian gipsy communities
S Assal1, E Susanszky, A Czeizel
1Department of Human Genetics and Teratology, National Institute of Hygiene, Budapest, Hungary.
Acta Paediatrica Hungarica
|January 1, 1991
Summary
This study examined reproductive patterns in 1074 Gipsy women, revealing significantly earlier first births and high rates of endogamy, including a notable prevalence of first cousin marriages compared to the general Hungarian population.
Area of Science:
- Demography
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Gipsy (Roma) communities exhibit distinct socioeconomic and demographic profiles.
- Understanding reproductive health is crucial for targeted public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze reproductive activity and marriage patterns within Gipsy communities.
- To compare these patterns with the general Hungarian population.
Main Methods:
- Anonymous personal interviews with 1074 Gipsy women (aged 13-52) with at least one child.
- Confirmation of data using official documents.
- Analysis of partner origin and consanguinity rates.
Main Results:
- Gipsy communities show significantly lower socioeconomic status than the Hungarian average.
- First births occur at a much younger age.
- Male partners were of Gipsy origin in 90% of couples, indicating high endogamy.
- First cousin couple occurrence was 16 times higher than in the general population, with regional variations.
Conclusions:
- Gipsy reproductive behavior differs markedly from the general population, characterized by early fertility and high endogamy.
- Elevated rates of consanguineous marriages warrant further investigation regarding potential health implications.
- Socioeconomic factors likely influence these reproductive trends.