Genotype Compatibility

Genotype compatibility is a topic that should be discussed as a matter of necessity, between partners who intend to get married and/or bear children. This helps prevent future problems for partners and their child(ren).

The WHO 2014 statistics, says that; “at least 100,000 babies die from the sickle cell disorder in Nigeria every year.”

What is genotype?

Genotype is simply the genetic makeup of an individual organism which determines a specific characteristic. Blood genotype indicates the type of protein (Haemoglobin) found in your red blood cells. There are six blood genotypes which are AA, AS, AC, SS, SC and CC (very rare).

Who is genetically compatible?

Two people are genetically compatible when there is no possibility of birthing a sickle cell diseased child.

To know if genotypes are compatible, a physical pairing with the letters can be done.

For example, 

AA x AS can produce either AA or AS.

SS x  AA will produce AS throughout.

These examples above are most likely to occur but they're not 100% assured.

AA genotype can be crossed with any other genotype. This makes AA, the safest genotype.

Compatible genotypes:

• AA x AA
• AA x SS
• AA x AS
• AA x SC
• AA x AC
• AA x CC

Incompatible genotypes:

• AS x AS
• AS x AC
• AS x SC
• AS x CC
• AC x SS
• AC x AC
• AC x SC
• AC x CC
• SS x SS
• CC x CC
• SC x SC

Sickle Cell Disease

SS, SC and CC genotypes are called sickle cell disease genotypes. SCD patients suffer pain in parts of the body (arms & legs, belly, chest, hands & feet, lower back), breathing problems, jaundice, weakness among others.

Genotype can only be changed by undergoing a bone marrow transplant (BMT). Research has shown that it is the only promising permanent cure to SS, SC, and CC; however, it is new, very expensive and cannot be done in any part of Africa. It also carries some risks like stem cell (graft) damage, infections, infertility, death among others.

To prevent crisis and stay healthy, SCD patients should do the following:

1. Avoid taking baths with cold water.
2. Dress in warm clothes in cold environments.
3. Drink plenty of water.
4. Limit Alcohol.
5. Avoid smoking.
6. Manage stress.
7. Stay amidst healthy people.
8. Exercise.
9. Use their medication regularly.

It is better safe than sorry. Preventing innocent children from suffering pain, by knowing your genotype, is a great show of love.  If you don't know yours, you can go to an accredited hospital and get the test done. Cheers to a generation that produces SCD free children!

References:

www.webmd.com

www.healthline.com

www.aun.edu.ng