Stuff You Should Know What's the deal with blue people?
Dec 9, 2021
Discover the intriguing history of the blue-skinned individuals of Kentucky, stemming from a rare genetic condition. The hosts explore the implications of intermarriage and the science behind the mutation. Dive into the medical mystery involving groundbreaking treatments and the complex interplay of genetics with skin color and societal perceptions. The narrative also touches on race, ancestry, and the cultural significance of this fascinating phenomenon, all while adding a humorous twist to the conversation.
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The Blue Fugates of Kentucky
- Martin Fugate, a French orphan, immigrated to Kentucky in 1820 and married Elizabeth Smith.
- Four of their seven children were born with blue skin, a condition later identified as methemoglobinemia.
Isolation and Inbreeding
- The blue Fugates, self-conscious about their skin, isolated themselves further.
- This isolation led to inbreeding, increasing the occurrence of methemoglobinemia within the community.
Methemoglobinemia: A Blood Disorder
- Methemoglobinemia is a blood disorder, not a skin condition.
- It's caused by an excess of methemoglobin, a form of hemoglobin with oxidized iron that cannot bind oxygen effectively.