Genetic diseases are disorders passed from parents to children through genes. They represent a diverse group of conditions that may affect various bodily functions and occur as a result of defects in the genetic material (DNA), either due to a gene mutation or a chromosomal defect.<br /><br />Causes of Genetic Diseases<br />Genetic diseases arise as a result of several factors, including:<br /><br />Genetic mutations: Permanent changes in the DNA sequence that affect gene function.<br /><br />Parental inheritance: One or both parents may carry defective genes that are passed on to their children.<br /><br />Chromosomal disorders: Such as an extra or missing chromosome, as in the case of Down syndrome.<br /><br />Types of Genetic Diseases<br />Genetic diseases can be classified into several types:<br /><br />Monogenic disorders: These occur as a result of a defect in a single gene. Such as:<br /><br />Cystic fibrosis<br /><br />Sickle cell anemia<br /><br />Huntington's disease<br /><br />Multifactorial disorders<br />Result from the interaction of multiple genes with environmental factors. Such as:<br /><br />Diabetes<br /><br />Heart disease<br /><br />Cancer<br /><br />Chromosomal disorders<br /><br />Such as:<br /><br />Down syndrome<br /><br />Turner syndrome<br /><br />Diagnostic methods<br />Genetic diagnostic tools include:<br /><br />DNA tests to detect mutations.<br /><br />Premarital genetic testing to identify mutation carriers.<br /><br />Pregnancy tests to detect genetic diseases in fetuses.<br /><br />Prevention and treatment<br />Although many genetic diseases cannot be completely cured, there are ways to limit their spread and mitigate their effects, such as:<br /><br />Genetic counseling before marriage or pregnancy.<br /><br />In vitro fertilization with prenatal genetic screening (PGD)<br /><br /> Gene therapy is a promising area of ​​research for correcting disease-causing mutations.<br /><br />Drug therapy and medical support can reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.<br /><br />Conclusion<br />Genetic diseases represent a major health challenge in many societies, especially those where consanguineous marriages are common. With advances in genetics and biotechnology, early diagnosis and prevention of some of these diseases have become possible. Therefore, genetic awareness and counseling play a fundamental role in building healthy societies.<br /><br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq.