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 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. The sickle cell trait improves overall health and resistance to other diseases. The sickle cell trait improves overall health and resistance to other diseases. 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. Skip to navigation

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) have a form of resistance to malaria, as the malaria parasite has a harder time surviving in sickle-shaped red blood cells. However, they do not experience the severe health complications associated with sickle cell disease that occur in individuals with two sickle cell alleles (homozygous).