Why are cousin marriages being blamed for the birth of a baby with two faces?

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  • Thread starter FAlonso
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In summary, the conversation discusses the topic of a baby born with two faces in Rawalpindi, Pakistan and a possible explanation for this rare condition. The explanation being discussed is that cousin marriages may be responsible, but the speaker finds it hard to believe due to the fact that cousin marriages have been observed for centuries without dramatic consequences. The other participant in the conversation mentions that inbreeding can sometimes result in abnormal offspring, possibly providing a scientific explanation for the condition.
  • #1
FAlonso
112
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I find it hard to swallow the explanation that cousin marriages are responsible. Guess humanity has been watching these marriages for centuries and nothing dramatic or too much of it has happened but why now ?

Not for the weak heart
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baby-with-two-faces-3.jpg


http://www.scientiaweb.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/baby-with-two-faces-2.jpg

http://www.scientiaweb.com/2011/09/25/baby-with-two-faces-born-in-rawalpindi-pakistan/"
 
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  • #2
This is a known but very rare condition caused by a mis-regulation of SHH protein. In developing chick arms this has been shown to cause odd symmetrical developments.
http://i.quizlet.net/i/VD6pmVjeyUDJshPOc5Io-w_m.jpg
 
  • #3
FAlonso said:
I find it hard to swallow the explanation that cousin marriages are responsible. Guess humanity has been watching these marriages for centuries and nothing dramatic or too much of it has happened but why now ?

Why is that? I don't know about this specific case but first cousin marriages many times result in abnormal offspring. It happens due to something called inbreeding.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inbreeding
 

FAQ: Why are cousin marriages being blamed for the birth of a baby with two faces?

What causes a baby to be born with two faces?

There are several potential causes for a baby to be born with two faces, also known as craniofacial duplication. This rare condition can occur due to genetic mutations, environmental factors, or a combination of both. In some cases, it may also be the result of an abnormal splitting of the embryonic disk during development.

Is craniofacial duplication hereditary?

In most cases, craniofacial duplication is not considered to be a hereditary condition. However, there are some rare genetic disorders that can increase the chances of a baby being born with two faces. These include holoprosencephaly and facial duplication syndrome.

What are the health implications for a baby born with two faces?

The health implications for a baby born with two faces can vary greatly depending on the severity and extent of the duplication. In some cases, the condition may be purely cosmetic and have no impact on the baby's health. However, in more severe cases, it can lead to serious medical complications such as breathing difficulties, vision and hearing problems, and developmental delays.

Can craniofacial duplication be treated?

There is currently no standard treatment for craniofacial duplication as it is an extremely rare condition. In some cases, surgery may be an option to correct any physical abnormalities or improve the baby's quality of life. However, the success of surgery depends on the individual case and may not always be possible.

What support and resources are available for families with a baby born with two faces?

Families with a baby born with two faces may benefit from seeking support from medical professionals, such as genetic counselors and pediatric specialists. There are also online support groups and organizations that can provide information, resources, and emotional support for families dealing with craniofacial duplication.

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