Erythrocyte G-6-PD and 6-PGD genetic polymorphisms in South African Negroes, with a note on G-6-PD and the malaria hypothesis.

Sample of 981 and 998 South African Negroes belonging to seven different ethnic groups were screened for G-6-PD and 6-PGD phenotypes, respectively. The results are discussed in terms of the interethnic variability and the possible adaptive values of these genetic polymorphisms. Particular attention is paid to the geographic co-distribution and interrelationship of G-6-PD deficiency and the occurrence of malaria in South Africa.