16. Which of the following groups is most likely to carry the cystic fibrosis (CF) gene?
Answer: C
Caucasian Americans are most likely to carry the cystic fibrosis (CF) gene.
Cystic fibrosis is more prevalent among Caucasian Americans, with about 1 in 29 individuals in this group carrying the CF gene. This statistic highlights the genetic predisposition of this demographic to the condition.
A) African Americans
While individuals from all ethnic backgrounds can carry the CF gene, African Americans have a lower prevalence compared to Caucasian Americans. The passage indicates that the CF gene is less common in this group, making it an incorrect answer.
B) Asian Americans
Similar to African Americans, the prevalence of the CF gene among Asian Americans is significantly lower than that of Caucasian Americans. The passage does not suggest any substantial risk for this group, thereby rendering this option incorrect.
C) Caucasian Americans
Caucasian Americans are specifically noted in the passage as the demographic with the highest likelihood of carrying the CF gene, as approximately 1 in 29 individuals in this group are affected. This makes it the correct answer.
D) Native Americans
The passage does not indicate a higher prevalence of the CF gene among Native Americans. Therefore, this option is incorrect as it does not align with the statistics provided in the extract regarding gene frequency.
Conclusion
Caucasian Americans are identified as the group most likely to carry the cystic fibrosis gene due to the specific statistic of 1 in 29 individuals affected. The other options do not reflect the genetic data presented in the passage, which emphasizes the higher prevalence in Caucasian Americans compared to other ethnic groups.