Why are genetic diseases more likely in the offspring of closely related parents than in the general population?
A) There is a greater likelihood that one parent carries a dominant gene for a disease.
B) There is a greater likelihood that both parents carry a dominant gene for a disease.
C) There is a greater likelihood that one parent carries a recessive gene for a disease.
D) There is a greater likelihood that both parents carry a recessive gene for a disease.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When closely related parents have children, there is a greater likelihood that both parents carry the same recessive gene for a disease. Due to their close genetic relationship, they are more likely to share genetic mutations that may lead to diseases. In the general population, these mutations are less likely to be present in both parents, and so the risk of genetic diseases is lower.

Why Are Genetic Diseases More Likely in the Offspring of Closely