Which of the following conditions is noted as the most common among Ashkenazi Jews?

Get ready for the American Board of Genetic Counseling exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Gaucher disease is recognized as the most common genetic condition among Ashkenazi Jews. This disorder is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme glucocerebrosidase, leading to the buildup of certain lipids in the body. The carrier frequency for Gaucher disease in this specific population is significantly higher than in the general population, which is attributed to historical demographic factors, such as genetic drift and founder effects.

Understanding the epidemiology of genetic disorders in specific populations is crucial for genetic counseling, especially in identifying at-risk individuals and providing appropriate screening and reproductive options. While conditions like cystic fibrosis (CF), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and familial dysautonomia also have increased frequencies in various populations, their prevalence among Ashkenazi Jews is not as pronounced as that of Gaucher disease. This difference highlights the importance of focusing on population-specific data in genetic counseling practices.

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