Consanguine (Cross-Cousin) Marriages and Child Mortality in Pakistan: An Evolutionary Perspective

Abstract

Consanguine marriages or cross-cousin marriages are one of the most practiced marriages type in South Asia and especially Pakistan. From biological point of view these marriages create high risk of genetically transferred disease among the children and can increase child mortality rates. This articles employes evolutionary theory, life history and demographics to understand the complexity of consanguine marriages and their relationship with the child mortality rates. Using systematic literature review approach this article conducted the systematic review of literature on the issues to understand it. It was found in the review that the relationship between consanguine marriages and child mortality rate is significant however, socio-economic and political factors motivate the close relatives to opt for consanguine marriages. This paper recommends that people should be educated about the risks of genetic diseases due to consanguine marriages, and more steps should be taken such as genetic testing before marriages to reduce the mortality rates.