Key Highlights
- NHS staff told not to discourage first cousin marriages.
- Risk of genetic disorders in children from such marriages is ‘slightly increased’.
- Government-funded NCMD advises on genetic counseling for close relative marriage couples.
- Critics argue the health risks are much higher and warn of societal impacts.
The National Child Mortality Database, funded by taxpayers, has issued a directive to NHS staff: stop discouraging first cousin marriages. This comes despite the fact that babies born from such unions are up to three times more likely to have genetic disorders, according to experts. The guidance challenges long-held beliefs and places the NHS in an awkward position.
Genetic Risks vs Health Precautions
The NCMD’s document states, “It is unacceptable to discourage close relative marriage in a blanket way” because the risk of genetic disorders is only “slightly increased.” However, this view does not align with the overwhelming scientific consensus. The risks are significant and well-documented.
Scientific Consensus
Banning cousin marriages won’t stop these relationships, argues Richard Holden, a Conservative MP who campaigns to prohibit them. He says that first cousin marriage carries far higher genetic risk, as well as damaging individual liberty and societal cohesion. “Pretending otherwise helps no one, least of all the children born with avoidable conditions,” he warns.
Healthcare Response
The NHS stance is clear: having closely related parents increases the risk of inherited genetic conditions. Yet, it’s funding additional genetic testing and support for families at increased risk due to close relative marriage. This includes midwives who will work with women from Pakistani ethnic groups, a community where cousin marriages are more common.
Government Support
NHS England is increasing models of care for couples at increased genetic risk through the Genetic Risk Equity Project. The government funding will provide capacity in nine pilot sites, including midwifery and neonatal nursing support. This initiative aims to ensure that families have access to appropriate genetic testing and information.
Public Opinion
A recent YouGov poll showed that 75% of Britons think first cousin marriage should not be legal, while only 9% believe the law should remain as is. The debate highlights a clash between cultural practices and public health concerns.
Criticism and Concerns
Professor Michael Muthukrishna argues that when marriage is restricted to family members, communities become more isolated, limiting social integration. “This isolation has allowed for over-representation of radicalisation and grooming gangs,” he says. Normalising cousin marriage doesn’t help mothers or babies affected by the well-documented health risks of repeated inbreeding.
The NHS guidance acknowledges the need to balance cultural practices with public health concerns but stops short of outright prohibition. The issue remains contentious, reflecting a complex interplay between tradition and modern medical understanding.
