Consanguinity and Inbreeding Coefficient F in Aligarh City, India: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Objective: To determine the coefficient of inbreeding of consanguinity (F) and its correlates in Aligarh city, India. Material and Methods: Cross sectional household survey with a sample size of 2000 (1600 non-consanguineous and 400 consanguineous couples) using systematic random sampling. Researcher conducted the study by visiting every tenth household of every tenth ward of Aligarh city. Information was recorded on a pre-tested questionnaire, which had questions pertaining to religion, details regarding relationship between couples (consanguineous / non consanguineous marriage), type of consanguinity (first cousin/second cousin/third cousin), level of education and occupation (a proxy for socioeconomic status). Descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and multivariate logistic regression were used. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that Islam (p<0.001) and Christianity (p<0.001) were significantly associated with consanguinity. Private employment with (-) B value (p<0.001) showed a significant association of the variable with non-consanguineous group. Coefficient of inbreeding for the present study was 0.0538, highest reported from any part of India. Conclusion: Consanguinity is a prevailing problem in Aligarh city, India. Evidence based guidelines needed. Information - education - communication and pre-marital counseling suggested to make population aware of the consequences of consanguinity and to help couples make a decision.