Rate of Consanguineous Marriages in Afghan Society and Its Effects on Health

Abstract

Purpose: This study exposes the rate of consanguineous marriages in afghan population and its effects on the health of their children.
 Methodology: A questionnaire was designed to collect the data. A total of 2300 respondents were asked about their socio-demographic and attitude towards consanguineous marriages in which 2201 responded according to criteria. The paper describes the quantitative and qualitative types of surveys, which include field observations and doctor interviews for various positions in private and public health organizations. The target population was the Afghan Community as a whole in Afghanistan.
 Findings: By stratified sampling, the respondents highlighted that 69% married people have Paternal and maternal relationship with their partners, among which 47.4% and 33.9% have Paternal and maternal relations respectively. The data analysis exhibits that 20.1% of consanguineous couples mention that their Children have different types of congenital health defects like mental retardation, limb anomalies, stillbirth, recurrent abortion, thalassemia, albinism, cardiovascular, metabolic disorder, dental anomalies, and physical and mental disabilities. Consanguineous marriage was preferred by 66% of Afghans, while 33% of Afghans were not interested in consanguineous marriage. Big families' trend is commonly a sign of pride and honor in the Afghan community. Therefore, consanguineous marriages are widely practiced in afghan population.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practices: Genetics studies have recognized "consanguinity" as one of the major causes of hereditary diseases. The occurrence of congenital abnormalities, mental retardations, and physical disabilities was noted in the offspring of consanguineous couples; thus, it will be helpful to understand consanguinity as a risky practice in Afghan society.