Previously, about 60% of babies in this community had parents who were first or second cousins; this figure has now dropped to 46%. Factors contributing to this decline include higher educational attainment, evolving family dynamics, and changes in UK immigration rules.

This shift is particularly evident among younger generations, who are increasingly rejecting the tradition of arranged and cousin marriages. The Born in Bradford research project, which began in 2007, has played a role in tracking these changes. The study highlights that cousin marriages are now less common, especially among UK-born mothers and those with higher education.

Awareness of the risks of congenital anomalies associated with cousin marriages, the influence of prolonged education, and changes in family conversations about marriage are thought to be driving this trend. Interviews with young Bradford residents reveal a preference for marrying outside the family and exploring relationships beyond traditional boundaries.

The decline in cousin marriages also reflects a broader cultural shift within the Pakistani community in Bradford, aligning with changing social norms and attitudes towards marriage and family relationships.