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What is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability?

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Final answer:

The most common cause of inherited intellectual disability is genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome and X-linked recessive inheritance. Learning disabilities are different from intellectual disabilities and are strictly neurological in nature.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most common cause of inherited intellectual disability is genetic disorders. These disorders can be caused by abnormalities in genes or chromosomes and can affect the development and functioning of the brain. One example is Down syndrome, which is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. Individuals with Down syndrome may experience intellectual disabilities as well as other physical and developmental challenges.

Another example is X-linked recessive inheritance, where the disease-causing gene is located on the X chromosome. Diseases like color blindness, hemophilia, and muscular dystrophy are transmitted through this type of inheritance. Males are more commonly affected by X-linked recessive disorders, while females can be carriers of the disease without showing symptoms.

It's important to note that learning disabilities, like dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, are different from intellectual disabilities. Learning disabilities are strictly neurological in nature and can affect specific areas of learning, while intellectual disabilities involve overall intellectual functioning.

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