Most people of Nigerian descent are familiar with sickle cell anaemia.
Most of us young adults are also aware of how important genotype is in relationships that will turn into marriage. So if both parties are AA, its deep breaths of relief for all. If one party is AS and other is AA, no problems there either.
But what happens when both parties are AS? This means that there is a 1 in 4 chance that every child conceived of this union will be a sickler.
Case in Point: 2 people that have known each other for years but never quite got together. Like a lot of fairytales, a friendship blooms and suddenly the affection is mutual. And one party is building castles in the clouds while the other's affection wanes. Well not wanes exactly, for this party clearly cares about the other. But its halted. After a lot of prodding, cajoling and plain brutal questioning, the truth comes out. Party A realizes that Party B is As. Party B does not make the connection immediately and then it clicks. They are both AS. Party A thinks that what they have should be let go of to prevent complications. Party B is sad but aware of the role technology and modern medicine and doesnt see it as the end of things. Both Parties go back and forth but Party A is adamant that it is better to end things as this relationship is serious enough to end up in marriage. Party B is sad that Party A is "giving up" on this special thing.
Is Party A right? Should this relationship go to prevent problems down the line? Is Party B right in wanting things to proceed and then relying on future tests to take care of pregnancy issues down the line?
What do you think?
