Question

A genetic disorder, occurring primarily in African Americans, that compromises the cell's ability to carry oxygen properly.

A. Klinefelter's Syndrome
B. Fragile X Syndrome
C. Turner Syndrome
D. Sickle cell anemia
E. Tay Sachs Disease

Answer 1

Sickle cell anemia is the genetic disorder that compromises oxygen transport in red blood cells, leading to them becoming sickle-shaped and causing health complications. It is particularly prevalent among African Americans and is an autosomal recessive disorder.

Step-by-step explanation:

The genetic disorder primarily affecting African Americans that impairs red blood cells' oxygen-carrying capability is sickle cell anemia. In this condition, the red blood cells take on a sickle shape, which reduces their ability to move through capillaries and deliver oxygen effectively to tissues. This occurs due to a mutation in the gene that codes for the hemoglobin protein, causing hemoglobin to polymerize under low oxygen conditions and making the red blood cells rigid and crescent-shaped. This disease can cause severe pain, frequent infections, and other health complications. Sickle cell anemia is an autosomal recessive disorder, meaning that it often requires two copies of the genetic mutation to manifest as the full disease, although individuals with one copy, known as carriers, can also exhibit some related health issues.