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Understanding Ectrodactyly: The Unique Condition of the Vadoma Tribe

Jakarta

In Kanyemba in the north of Zimbabwe, there is a tribe with a unique body shape. They are citizens of the Vadoma tribe. They are in the spotlight of the world because they have legs that look like those of an ostrich.

The medical condition experienced by Vadoma residents is known as ‘ostrich leg’ syndrome or ectrodactyly. This condition is also known as bipedal syndrome or lobster claw syndrome.

This condition is a rare genetic disorder that affects the growth of the feet and causes them to take an ostrich-like shape. This makes the sufferer lose three middle fingers and leave the outer two fingers.

Questioning the Condition of Ectrodactyly

Ectrodactyly is a very rare genetic disorder. Apart from the feet, this condition can also occur in the patient’s hands.

Furthermore, this disorder is caused by an autosomal dominant condition caused by a single mutation on chromosome 7. Scientists say that this rare condition can be passed down from generation to generation in families.

In addition to experiencing deformities in the feet or hands, people with ectrodactyly generally also experience hearing problems.

Residents of Vadoma Still Feel Proud

The rare mutation in the Vadoma tribe is believed to occur in about one in every four children born. Due to isolation practices and laws in force in the Vadoma tribe, they also maintain genetic mutations more frequently when compared to the rest of the population.

Although many of their members have difficulty walking or running, the Vadoma people do not see this condition as a disability. Residents of Vadoma even think it should be celebrated.

Ectrodactyly conditions make it easier for Vadoma residents to climb trees. This skill is certainly beneficial because many Vadoma residents are still traditional and depend on hunting and gathering for a living.

NEXT: There is a History of Incest

(avk/vyp)

2023-09-03 22:30:12
#Facts #Vadoma #Tribe #Africa #Ostrich #Feet

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