Calculation of Predictive Odds for Possible Carriers of Haemophilia

Abstract

Betting odds for possible carriers of haemophilia have been calculated using data derived from normal and known carrier populations. For each possible carrier the concentration of factor VIII-related antigen and factor VIII biological activity was measured and used to determine the probability of the individual being a carrier. The calculations indicated that, of the 32 possible carriers, 11 were likely to be normal (odds of more than 5:1) while 11 were likely to be haemophilia carriers (again odds of more than 5:1).