Question

In regions where malaria is common, some people have a genetic variation known as the sickle cell trait. People with one sickle cell allele and one normal allele (heterozygous) have a resistance to malaria, while people with two normal alleles are more likely to get malaria. However, people with two sickle cell alleles (homozygous) can develop sickle cell disease, which is harmful. Why does having one sickle cell allele provide a survival advantage in regions where malaria is common? (1 point) Responses People with the sickle cell allele are less likely to develop sickle cell disease. People with the sickle cell allele are less likely to develop sickle cell disease. The sickle cell trait improves overall health and resistance to other diseases. The sickle cell trait improves overall health and resistance to other diseases. The sickle cell trait protects people from malaria without causing the severe effects of sickle cell disease. The sickle cell trait protects people from malaria without causing the severe effects of sickle cell disease.

Answer 1

The correct response is: **The sickle cell trait protects people from malaria without causing the severe effects of sickle cell disease.**

This is because individuals with one sickle cell allele (heterozygous) possess a level of protection against malaria, as the malaria parasite has difficulty surviving in their red blood cells, while not experiencing the severe health issues associated with having two sickle cell alleles (homozygous).