The NHS in the UK is facing strong criticism after publishing woke-based guidelines that emphasize positive aspects of marriages between first cousins, despite the proven increased risk of children being born with genetic disorders and claims that the practice is linked to the oppression of women in some communities.

NHS guidelines and the “benefits” they promote

The NHS Genomic Education Program stated that while marriages between first cousins increase the likelihood of genetic diseases, they also provide benefits such as “stronger family support networks” and “financial advantages.” According to the guidelines, the likelihood of a child being born with a genetic condition in the general population is 2–3%, whereas for children of first cousins, it increases to 4–6%, with the NHS stressing that “the majority of these children are born healthy.”

The document also argues that a ban would “stigmatize cultural traditions”(sic) and instead proposes strengthening genetic counseling, awareness campaigns, and…educational programs!

Link to genetic disorders and cost to the health system

The practice, which is particularly common within Britain’s Pakistani community, has been linked to higher rates of genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia. Data show that up to 20% of children with congenital problems in cities such as Sheffield, Glasgow, and Birmingham come from Pakistani families, compared to just 4% in the general population. The economic cost to the NHS is estimated to be in the billions of pounds.

Political reactions: “A disaster for health and women’s rights”

Conservative MP Richard Holden stated that his party would push for legislation banning first-cousin marriages, arguing that the practice “undermines integration, women’s rights, and the health of those involved.” He added, “The NHS should not bow to harmful and oppressive cultural practices.”

He also accused the Labour Party and Prime Minister Keir Starmer of “ignoring the legitimate demands of the British majority” and allowing the practice to continue “as a backdoor for immigration.”

Experts warn of honor violence and corruption

Dr. Patrick Nash, a religious law specialist and director of the Pharos Foundation in Oxford, called it “disappointing” that the NHS published guidelines mentioning “supposed social benefits” without highlighting the proven links to honor-based violence, gender discrimination, and the corruption of family structures.

“Marriage between first cousins is incest and must be banned immediately. There is no balance between a cultural choice and the serious consequences for public health,” he stressed, calling for the immediate withdrawal of the document.

Public opinion and historical context

A YouGov poll showed that three-quarters of Britons support banning marriages between first cousins, while only 9% want the current legal status to remain.

The NHS noted that the practice has existed in Britain since the 16th century, when Henry VIII passed a law allowing him to marry Anne Boleyn and later her cousin, Catherine Howard.