Why cousin marriage is a genetic gamble | Mohammed Jakir Hosen | TEDxCOU
Discover the hidden genetic risks behind cousin marriage in this thought-provoking TEDxCoU talk by Prof. Dr. Mohammad Jakir Hosen, Professor of Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh.In “When Cousins Marry: A Genetic Gamble?” Dr. Hosen dives deep into the science of heredity, sharing real-life examples, historical stories like the Habsburg Jaw, and rare disorders such as Meckel-Gruber syndrome to reveal how cousin marriage increases the chances of passing on genetic diseases. With detailed visuals and global statistics, this talk sheds light on the prevalence of consanguineous marriages worldwide, especially in South Asia and the Middle East, and their impact on child mortality, miscarriage rates, and a range of inherited disorders including thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, and mental disabilities.Learn about the power of awareness, genetic screening, and scientific prevention, as Dr. Hosen highlights success stories like Cyprus, where informed public health policies reduced thalassemia birth rates sharply. The talk concludes with a powerful message: Cousin marriage is not destiny, but a choice; and with knowledge, compassion, and proactive health measures, families and communities can make informed decisions without sacrificing tradition. Mohammed Jakir Hosen — a distinguished researcher, geneticist, and biotechnologist whose journey has been defined by discovery, discipline, and a deep dedication to the future of science.From decoding the complex language of genes to innovating at the frontiers of biotechnology, his work reflects the true spirit of The Next Wave — one that doesn’t just envision a better world, but engineers it.He has dedicated his career to exploring life at its most fundamental level, yet his mission has always reached beyond the microscope. Through his research, he’s helped uncover pathways to healing, solutions to pressing health challenges, and insights that connect science with society. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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