Qatari intersections with global genetics research and discourse

Abstract

Genetic discourses have taken a predominant role in approaches to combating a number of conditions that affect Qataris. This paper is derived from an exploration of Qatari encounters with globalizing discourses of genetics, particularly as they relate to notions of risk. It explores Qataris negotiations of global interactions and influences, including the discourses around genetic risk and cousin marriage. It suggests that family marriage can be seen as one of the main platforms of resistance and a means for modern, cosmopolitan and tradition to be negotiated.

Consanguineous Marriage and the Psychopathology of the Progeny of First-Cousin Couples

“…8 Despite these caveats, the paper by Maguire et al 5 is important and should be a major stimulus to future efforts to understand the genetic contribution to common complex psychiatric conditions. Given the impetus toward wholegenome sequencing in many parts of the world, including among the rapidly modernizing Gulf states, 8,11 we may have entire genomes at our disposal to guide genetic counseling for medical and psychiatric conditions.…”