Genetic disorders caused by consanguineous marriage in Radfan districts - Yemen

Consanguineous marriage (≥ second cousins) is prevalent in Yemen (40-50%) and linked to increased genetic disorders. This study assesses its prevalence and health impacts in Radfan districts.

A 2024 cross-sectional study of 1065 randomly selected households. Data were collected via validated questionnaires supplemented by medical records where available. Analyses included consanguinity rates, inbreeding coefficients (F), sociocultural factors, and clinically validated genetic disorders. Statistical analysis employed χ² tests, multivariable logistic regression (adjusted ORs), and Cohen's d for effect sizes.

The consanguinity rate was 57.46%, significantly higher in rural (37.09%) than urban areas (20.38%). Wives with a university education had a 71.9% lower likelihood of consanguineous marriage (adjusted OR = 0.28; 95% CI: 0.18-0.44). Consanguineous couples had significantly higher odds of adverse outcomes compared to non-consanguineous couples, including abortion (adjusted OR = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.4-2.3), child mortality (adjusted OR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.6-2.8), blood disorders (adjusted OR = 3.5; 95% CI: 1.7-7.4), and disabilities (adjusted OR = 2.6; 95% CI: 1.4-4.8). Blood disorders were predominantly hemoglobinopathies (87%). The mean inbreeding coefficient was F = 0.0625 (first-cousin equivalent).

The high prevalence of consanguineous marriages is a significant, modifiable risk factor for the increased burden of genetic disorders in the population. Addressing this urgent public health challenge requires a multi-faceted strategy: implementing mandatory premarital screening for hemoglobinopathies, launching community-based genetic literacy programs, and establishing economic incentives to encourage non-consanguineous unions.