Abstract
Background: The prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) represents a significant global health challenge, accounting for 71% of global deaths. This concern is also widespread in Morocco. Consanguinity, common in Arab and Muslim regions, could influence the genetic predisposition to these diseases. This study aimed to explore the impact of consanguineous marriage (CM) on predisposition to these chronic illnesses among the populace in Settat province, Morocco, concerning prevalent NCDs.
Study Design: A cross-sectional study.
Methods: This study was conducted in Settat, Morocco, from April to October 2021 and included 453 married women aged 18 and above. Participants were selected from rural and urban health centers using a two-stage sampling method. The data were collected through structured interviews using a validated questionnaire. Statistical analyses with SPSS 26 assessed associations between consanguinity and NCDs in respondents and their descendants using odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals.
Results: The participants had a mean age of 38.04 years, with 35% residing in rural areas and 26.7% having a CM. The results indicated that individuals with consanguineous ancestors have a greater risk of contracting NCDs, such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) (OR=2.047, P=0.005), diabetes (OR=1.988, P=0.009), asthma (OR=2.069, P=0.036), chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR=1.732, P=0.045), and cancer (OR=1.646, P=0.1), compared to those with non-consanguineous parents.
Conclusion: It is essential to integrate the harmful effects of consanguinity on future generations’ health into public health policy through genetic counseling, testing, screening, and awareness programs.