Study finds 30 new genes that may cause intellectual disabilities

BY IKRAM JUNAIDI

ISLAMABAD: The number of children suffering from intellectual disabilities in Pakistan is increasing due to cousin marriages.

A study conducted by the Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University, the University of Maryland School of Medicine in the United States and Radbound University in the Netherlands has found that 30 new genes have developed which are causing these disabilities.

In light of the study, recommendations will be sent to the government within a week for legislation that requires cousins to be screened before marriage.

The recommendations also include a proposal to ensure neonatal screening, which is already practiced in Europe and the US.

Neonatal screenings can identify conditions that could affect a foetus’ long term health or survival.

Early detection, diagnosis and intervention can prevent death or disability, and allow children to reach their full potential.

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