Consanguinity in Lebanon: prevalence, distribution and determinants

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Genetics
• Sociology

Background:

• Consanguinity, or marriage between relatives, is common in Middle Eastern communities.
• Previous data from 1988 indicated a consanguinity rate of approximately 26% in the region.
• Understanding current prevalence and associated factors is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of consanguineous marriages in Beirut and other Lebanese regions.
• To identify factors associated with consanguinity across different demographic subgroups.
• To explore the relationship between consanguinity and health outcomes in offspring.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving a convenience sample of 1556 married women in Lebanon.
• Standardized questionnaires administered through face-to-face interviews by independent enquirers.
• Statistical analysis to assess prevalence, consanguinity coefficient, and associated factors.

Main Results:

• The overall prevalence of consanguineous marriages was 35.5%.
• First-cousin marriages constituted the majority (31.6%) of consanguineous unions.
• Higher rates were observed in Beirut suburbs, among lower education subgroups, women working at home, and non-Christian religious groups.
• Consanguinity was associated with nulliparity and chronic childhood morbidity.

Conclusions:

• Consanguinity remains a significant public health issue in Lebanon.
• Factors influencing consanguinity include parental consanguinity, favorable opinions, religious motivations (especially in Islam), lower female education, and misconceptions about health risks.
• Health education and genetic counseling are recommended to inform couples about the consequences and promote informed choices.