What do we call disorders characterized by broken, damaged, or missing genetic material?

The term that refers to disorders characterized by broken, damaged, or missing genetic material is genetic abnormalities. These abnormalities can arise from various genetic issues, including chromosomal abnormalities, single-gene defects, or other alterations in DNA that can lead to a range of medical conditions or syndromes. Genetic abnormalities can affect an individual's development, physical health, and functionality in numerous ways, making proper identification and understanding of such disorders crucial in both clinical and therapeutic settings.

While metabolic errors, motor disorders, and intellectual disabilities may be associated with genetic factors, they do not specifically encompass the aspect of broken or damaged genetic material. Metabolic errors typically refer to issues in the body's metabolism often stemming from enzyme deficiencies. Motor disorders are related to the impairment of movement functions and can arise from a variety of causes, including neurological issues. Intellectual disabilities involve limitations in cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior, which may or may not have a direct genetic basis. Thus, the most precise term for disorders linked to genetic material issues is genetic abnormalities.