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Consanguineous Marriages in Antalya

Consanguineous marriages are quite common in Antalya, as in many parts of Turkey. Such marriages carry a significant risk in terms of genetic diseases. First- or second-degree relatives have a higher likelihood of carrying and passing on disease-related genes to their children compared to non-related couples.

Diseases Seen in Consanguineous Marriages

  • Thalassemia (Mediterranean anemia)
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
  • Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
  • Phenylketonuria (PKU)
  • Sickle Cell Anemia

Reasons for Consanguineous Marriages

  • Traditions and customs
  • Geographical isolation
  • Low level of education

Consequences of Consanguineous Marriages

  • Genetic diseases
  • Infant mortality
  • Congenital anomalies
  • Developmental delay

What Can Be Done to Prevent Consanguineous Marriages?

  • Raising public awareness about consanguineous marriages and genetic diseases
  • Expanding the use of carrier screening tests
  • Encouraging couples to consult specialist physicians for prenatal diagnosis
  • For couples diagnosed with genetic diseases or identified as carriers, IVF treatment is recommended. During IVF, a genetic screening test called PGT is performed on the embryo, ensuring the selection of a genetically healthy embryo.

Prevalence of Consanguineous Marriages in Antalya

While the prevalence of Beta Thalassemia (Mediterranean Anemia) in Turkey is approximately 2.1%, this rate rises to nearly 13% in Antalya.

What Is Being Done to Prevent Consanguineous Marriages in Antalya?

The Antalya Provincial Directorate of Health is implementing the “Prevention of Consanguineous Marriages Project.” Within the scope of this project, public awareness is raised regarding the risks and prevention of consanguineous marriages. Efforts are also being made to expand carrier screening tests. The primary way to reduce single-gene diseases caused by autosomal recessive inheritance, which are commonly seen in consanguineous marriages, is through community-wide screening. Individuals living in high-risk regions should undergo carrier testing and, based on the results, consult specialized IVF physicians for prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling.
Dr. Melek Büyükkınacı Erol provides services in Antalya as a specialist in obstetrics, gynecology, and IVF. Dr. Büyükkınacı continues her work to raise public awareness about preventing consanguineous marriages and to contribute to the widespread use of carrier screening tests.