Who is affected by Tay-Sachs disease
Content provided by Healthwise
Who is affected by Tay-Sachs disease
Tay-Sachs disease occurs most often in people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. About 1 out of 30 people in this population is a carrier of the disease (has the Tay-Sachs trait).1, 2 People of French-Canadian descent from the East Saint Lawrence River Valley of Quebec and people of Cajun descent in Louisiana are also at a higher risk than the general population.
In North America, about 3 to 5 babies are born each year with Tay-Sachs disease among the Ashkenazi Jewish population.1 For more information on genetic tests for people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, see the topic Ashkenazi Jewish Genetic Panel (AJGP).
References
Citations
Vallance H, Ford J (2003). Carrier testing for autosomal-recessive disorders. Clinical Laboratory Sciences, 40(4): 473–497.
Committee on Genetics, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (2004). Prenatal and preconceptional carrier screening for genetic diseases in individuals of Eastern European Jewish descent. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 104(2): 425–428.
Credits
| Author | Sabra L. Katz-Wise |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Renee H. Martin, PhD - Medical Genetics |
| Last Updated | April 14, 2006 |
| Last updated: | April 14, 2006 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Sabra L. Katz-Wise |
| Reviewed By: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Renee H. Martin, PhD - Medical Genetics |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
