A couple, both descended from eastern European (Ashkenazic) Jews, visit a genetic counselor before trying to have children. In view of their ethnic background, the counselor recommends that they be tested to see if they are carriers for __________.

• A. cystic fibrosis
• B. hemophilia
• C. sickle-cell disease
• D. hypercholesterolemia
• E. Tay-Sachs disease

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: The couple is of Ashkenazic Jewish descent, which is relevant because certain genetic disorders have a higher prevalence in specific ethnic groups.
2. Identify the genetic disorder: Tay-Sachs disease is a genetic disorder that is more common among people of Ashkenazic Jewish descent.
3. Recognize the inheritance pattern: Tay-Sachs disease is an autosomal recessive disorder, meaning that both parents must be carriers for there to be a risk of having an affected child.
4. Consider the role of genetic counseling: The counselor's recommendation for testing is based on the increased risk of Tay-Sachs disease in this population, aiming to identify if the couple are carriers.
5. Conclude the reasoning: Given the couple's background and the nature of Tay-Sachs disease, testing for carrier status is a prudent step in family planning.