My father does not have a retarded child from my mother but my uncle wife did, do I stand a chance of having o

Question

My father did not have a retarded child but my uncle's wife did have a cerebuall pullasy child do I stand a chance of having one if it does not exist on my mother's side?

Answer 1

Most cases of cerebral palsy are not hereditary. You need to know if there is an underlying diagnosis associated with your cousin's cerebral palsy.

It sounds as though your risks are small. A genetic counselor or genetic specialist could give you the most accurate appraisal.

Answer 2

Firstly cerebral palsy does not mean retarded, cerebral palsy is a general term that refers to brain injuries which affect an individuals motor development, posture, balance and ability to move. Retardation is a seperate issue, but the two are often seen together, although not always.

Secondly, it is not genetic, it is caused by an injury to the brain either in utero, during birth or soon after birth. Having one child with cerebral palsy in the family does not increase your likelihood of having another child with CP.