DNA Tests Are Uncovering the True Prevalence of Incest
17 days ago
- #DNA testing
- #genetic genealogy
- #incest prevalence
- DNA testing is revealing that incest is more common than previously thought, with cases found across all societal strata.
- Steve Edsel discovered through DNA testing that his biological parents were closely related, likely a result of sexual abuse given his mother's age at conception (14).
- Genetic genealogist CeCe Moore has identified over 1,000 cases of people born from incest, mostly involving first-degree relatives.
- Neither AncestryDNA nor 23andMe directly informs customers about incest; discoveries often come from third-party analysis of DNA data.
- Health risks for children of incest are higher due to increased chances of recessive genetic disorders, but many such individuals are healthy.
- Support groups, like the one created by Moore and managed by Steve and his wife Michelle, provide emotional help for those discovering their origins.
- Steve's journey highlights the emotional turmoil and eventual acceptance that can come with such revelations, including his efforts to connect with his biological family.
- Cultural taboos and stigma around incest have historically made it difficult to study, but DNA testing is now providing new insights into its prevalence.