Context:
Health Ministry stated that genetic conditions such as sickle cell disease and G-6 PD deficiency were rising in tribal areas.
About Sickle Cell Disease (SCD):
- An inherited blood disease common among people of African, Arabian and Indian origin.
- It is a chronic single gene disorder causing a debilitating systemic syndrome.
- Characterized by – Chronic anaemia, acute painful episodes, organ infarction and chronic organ damage etc.
- Condition –
- Transforms haemoglobin into hemoglobin S that can distort red blood cells into a sickle or crescent shape.
- Blocks blood flow and oxygen from reaching all parts of the body.
- Treatment –
- Blood Transfusions
- Hydroxyurea(Reduces the frequency of painful episodes)
- Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation
India and SCD:
- India – Home to 88% of Sickle Cell Anemia (SCA) cases in Asia.
- Major affecting regions – Eastern Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, western Odisha and Nilgiri Hills in north Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
- Prevalent among tribal communities including children.
About Glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G6PD):
- It is an X-linked enzyme that catalyses glucose metabolism.
- It is an example of balanced polymorphism (more variants).
- Regions found – Africa, Mediterranean region, Middle East and India.
- Importance –
- Individuals with G6PD deficiency have a certain level of protection against malaria.
- Lead to hemolyticanemia, a condition in which red blood cells are prematurely destroyed.
X-linked inheritance means that the gene causing the trait or the disorder is located on the X chromosome.
Source: The Hindu
Previous Year Question
Consider the following statements:
- In tropical regions, Zika virus disease is transmitted by ‘the same mosquito that transmits dengue.
- Sexual transmission of Zika virus disease is possible
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2017 Prelims]
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
