Genetic Variation and Disorders in People of African Origin

"The most comprehensive treatment of genetic variation and disorders in 'peoples of African origin' yet to appear. It is an encyclopedic work, broad in the scope of its mission and commendable in its achievement." -- American Journal of Human Genetics

"This volume is an excellent introduction to an interesting and important topic and is recommended for students, practitioners, and teachers in human genetics, biological anthropology, medicine, the health professions, and biology in general." -- Quarterly Review of Biology

The misuse of evidence of genetic differences among human populations to "prove" theories of white supremacy has seriously compromised studies of genetic variation among racial groups. But there is no question, argue James Bowman and Robert Murray, that genetic disorders do vary from one population to another. Emphasizing the positive value of genetic differences, Bowman and Murray offer an overview of the diverse African populations and trace their migrations both within Africa and throughout the world.

Topics include skeletal variation, pigmentation, polymorphisms, hemoglobinpathies and thalassemias, malaria, lactose intolerance, multiple births, congenital malformations, hypertension, and diabetes. The authors also explore the ethical and legal implications of genetic counseling for minority populations. Based on a careful survey and collation of the literature as well as on the authors' original research, Genetic Variation and Disorders in Peoples of African Origin provides more information on this subject than has been previously available in a single, concise volume.

James E. Bowman, M.D., is professor of pathology and medicine at the University of Chicago. Robert F. Murray, Jr., M.D., M.S., is professor of pediatrics and medicine at Howard University.