if procreating with close relatives causes dangerous mutations and increased risks of disease, how did isolated groups of humans deal with it?

Question

if procreating with close relatives causes dangerous mutations and increased risks of disease, how did isolated groups of humans deal with it?

In: 562

Answer 1

Procreation with close relatives can increase the risks of genetic mutations and disease because it increases the likelihood of inheriting the same harmful genetic variations from both parents. This is known as inbreeding, and it can lead to a range of health problems and disabilities.

In isolated groups of humans, such as small populations on isolated islands or in remote communities, inbreeding may have been more common due to the limited gene pool and the lack of genetic diversity. However, these groups have likely developed mechanisms and strategies to mitigate the risks of inbreeding and the associated health problems.

For example, some isolated populations may have developed cultural norms and rules that discourage or forbid marriage between close relatives, in order to prevent inbreeding and the associated health risks. Other populations may have developed genetic adaptations or evolved mechanisms that protect against the effects of inbreeding, such as increased immunity or resistance to diseases.

Overall, while inbreeding can pose significant health risks, isolated populations of humans have likely developed strategies and mechanisms to mitigate these risks and maintain the health and wellbeing of their communities.