Tay-Sachs Disease: Prevalence, Risk & Genetic Factors

Tay-Sachs disease is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder, meaning that both copies of the gene must be mutated in order for the disease to develop. The condition is most common among Ashkenazi Jews, although it can occur in people of any ethnic background. Tay-Sachs disease is not gender-specific, meaning that both men and women are equally likely to be affected.