UK NHS Under Fire for Downplaying Risks of First-Cousin Marriages

(MENAFN) Campaigners and lawmakers in the UK have sharply criticized the National Health Service (NHS) after the organization downplayed the risks of first-cousin marriages, equating them to other health risks such as late-in-life parenthood and smoking during pregnancy. This criticism follows the NHS's recent publication, which explored whether a ban on cousin unions should be imposed, ultimately suggesting potential societal and economic benefits.

The NHS's Genomics Education Programme sparked controversy last week by claiming that cousin marriages could offer advantages like stronger family networks and economic perks, despite acknowledging the heightened genetic risks of congenital conditions in offspring. In the article, the NHS made a controversial comparison, stating that the health risks of cousin marriages were similar to those associated with delayed childbirth or smoking and drinking during pregnancy.

The legal status of first-cousin marriages in the UK dates back to the 16th century, following a change in kinship laws under King Henry VIII, who sought to marry his cousin, Catherine Howard. While the law now prohibits marriages between parents, children, and siblings, unions between first cousins remain legal.

Conservative MP Richard Holden has pushed back against the NHS’s stance, introducing a bill in Parliament that seeks to outlaw cousin marriages. He argues that such unions pose a serious risk to children's health and have no place in modern society. The bill was tabled for a second reading early next year after being revisited by the Commons last week.

Holden condemned the NHS's stance, accusing the health service of "taking the knee to damaging and oppressive cultural practices" and claiming the Labour government remains "deaf" to calls for reform. He described cousin marriages as a “backdoor to immigration” and a threat to children’s well-being.

Further amplifying concerns, critics have pointed out the NHS's guidance could undermine public awareness of the potential health risks. Aisha Ali-Khan, who tragically lost three brothers to health complications she attributes to their parents’ cousin marriage, expressed frustration, telling the media: "I don't want other families to go through what ours did."

Additionally, Aneeta Prem, founder of the Freedom Charity, called cousin unions a "safeguarding risk," emphasizing the potential dangers posed to children born into such marriages.

In defense of the article, an NHS England spokesperson clarified that the publication was a “summary of existing research and policy debate,” not an official position. The spokesperson stressed that genetic counseling and education would be more effective strategies than outright prohibition in addressing these concerns.

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