Question

define favism and explain why its existense has given 400 million people an advantage

Answer 1

Favism is an enzyme deficiency disease. Due to deficiency of Glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase enzyme, the red blood cells will break down and lead to haemolytic anemia in these patients. This condition X linked recessive disorder, mainly triggered by intake of fava beans in food.This condition is common in males and in meditaranian areas. Advantages of this disease are as follows

1.Carriers of glucose 6- phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.( Favism) have protection against malarial infection.

2 .Favism patients also have reduced risk of coronary artery disease

3.These patients have advantage against cancers.