The Enduring Genetic Continuity of the Iranian Population Over Five Millennia

Patterns of Consanguinity
Another significant dimension of the study relates to patterns of consanguinity, or familial intermarriage, among Iranian ethnic groups. Populations such as the Arabs, Baluchis, and Sistanis exhibit higher levels of in-group marriage, while groups like the Gilaks and Kurds show lower rates. This has important implications for medical genetics, as higher consanguinity can elevate the risk of rare genetic disorders. Future public health efforts could benefit from understanding these patterns more deeply.