Muslim inbreeding (consanguinity) rates vary significantly by country, with some of the highest rates in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia, often ranging from 20% to over 60%, particularly in countries like Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and Kuwait, driven by cultural tradition and Islamic permissiveness of cousin marriage, though rates are declining with education. Pakistan shows exceptionally high rates (around 65%), while rates in Arab nations hover around 20-50%, with first-cousin unions being common, impacting genetic health.
Examples by Region & Country:
Middle East/North Africa: High prevalence, often 20-50%.
Pakistan: Extremely high, around 65% of marriages.
Saudi Arabia: Around 40-50%.
Egypt: Roughly 40% of marriages.
Kuwait/Bahrain: Rates from 20-64%.
Jordan: Around 27-68%.
South Asia (e.g., Pakistan, India): Also very high, around 55%.
