Genetic diseases in Lebanon

Abstract

Lebanon has a high incidence of common and rare genetic diseases, due probably to the mosaic different ethnic origins and the high rate of consanguineous marriages in certain communities. Two major investigations, exploring the genetic structure of the Lebanese population, indicated the population to be caucasiods (though Oriental traits were found). These investigations involved studies of dermatoglyphics, and type and distribution of genetic markers and protein variants. Recorded genetic diseases, some characteristic of ethnic group or particular to a geographic region include familial paroxysmal polyserositis, familial hypercholesterolemia, hypothroidism, the Dyggve-Melchoir-Clausen syndrome, Sandhoff disease, and various genetic hematologic diseases. Genetic counseling and care to patients with genetic diseases is available in Beirut from the Faculty of Medicine at American University and St. Joseph University. Also, the Lebanese National Council for Scientific Research initiates and finances medical genetics programs.