Why Genetic Disorders Are Increasing in Pakistan

Genetic disorders are becoming a serious health problem in Pakistan. Every year, thousands of children are born with conditions like thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, metabolic problems, and other inherited diseases. What makes this even more worrying is that many of these problems could have been prevented with awareness and early testing.

In this article, we will discuss why genetic disorders are raising in Pakistan, what are the main causes and what can we do to reduce this problem.

What Are Genetic Disorders?

Genetic disorders are health conditions that happens when there is a problem in a person’s genes. Genes carry instructions from parents to children, and if there is a mistake in the genes, it can cause disease. some disorders are minor, but others can be very serious and even life-threatening.

Why Are Genetic Disorders Growing in Pakistan?

1.High Rate of Cousin Marriages

One of the biggest reasons is the high number of marriages between cousins. Research shows that more than 60% of marriages in Pakistan are between close relatives. And because of this most of couples carries the same faulty genes and when that happens their child has a higher risk of being born with a disorder.

2. Lack of Awareness 

Many families do not know they are carriers of genetic conditions. Often, people only find out when their child is born with serious health problem. There is very little discussion about genetic testing before marriage especially in rural areas.

3. Limited Access to Testing

Advanced genetic testing is available in big cities, but in rural and remote areas it is either very expensive or not available at all. Families from these areas often cannot afford testing, so disorders remain undiagnosed or hidden until a chilf is born with serious health issues.

Real-Life Impact

Children with genetic disorders often face difficulties in walking, speaking, or learning. Families spend large amount of money on treatment that can be spent before marriage or pregnancy to reduce the possibility and spending money after issue creates financial pressure. In some cases, parents also face emotional stress and social challenges.

Possible Solutions

• Awareness Campaign: The government, schools, and media should tech people about genetic risks.
• Affordable Testing: Hospitals should provide low-cost or free genetic testing.
• counseling Services: Families should have access to medical experts who can guide them before marriage or pregnancy.
• Encourage Healthy Marriages: society should promote awareness that marriages outside close relatives can reduce health risk for children specifically in rural areas.

Conclusion 

Genetic disorders are not only a medical issue but also a social one. With better awareness, accessible testing and responsible decision- making, Pakistan can reduce number of children born with these conditions.

The key steps are education, early screening, and public health support. If these steps taken seriously, future generations can live healthier and safer lives.