G6PD deficiency is inherited; that means it is passed from one or both parents to the child. It is found in both males and females, but it usually affects males more severely. Learn about G6PD deficiency , a common enzyme deficiency anemia that can cause red blood cell breakdown and jaundice. Find out the causes, symptoms, triggers, diagnosis, treatment, and prevalence of this X-linked disorder. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase ( G6PD) deficiency is an X-linked recessive enzymatic disorder, particularly prevalent in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. In the US, about 14% of black men are affected. Individuals with G6PD deficiency are often ... G6PD deficiency is a hereditary genetic disorder that increases your risk of hemolytic anemia. It happens when your body doesn’t have enough G6PD enzyme.