Sickle cell disease is caused by a genetic mutation and, when untreated, results in disability and early death. However, the mutation that causes sickle cell disease is associated with protection against malaria, especially early in life. As a result, you would expect to see sickle cell disease ____.

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The mutation that causes sickle cell disease originated in areas that have historically had high rates of malaria. Populations in these areas developed this mutation as a protective measure against malaria. Therefore, sickle cell disease would occur at higher rates among populations whose genetic heritage can be traced to areas with a high incidence of malaria.

Sickle Cell Disease Is Caused by a Genetic Mutation And