Jewish Genetic Screening Awareness Week Day 4: Ashkenazi? Sephardi? Mizrahi? Why JScreen Matters for Everyone of Jewish Ancestry

February 6, 2020
JScreen

Jewish Genetic Screening Awareness Week

Day 4: Ashkenazi? Sephardi? Mizrahi?  Why JScreen Matters for Everyone of Jewish Ancestry

Medical professionals agree that every Jewish adult should be offered genetic testing before having children. Whereas previously many people thought that carrier testing for family planning was solely for Ashkenazi Jews, it’s increasingly understood that Jews of all backgrounds are at risk and should be screened, including those with Sephardi and Mizrahi ancestry (such as Persians, Syrians, and Bukharians).

JScreen’s simple, at-home spit test screens for more than 200 different genetic diseases and provides important information as you plan for your future healthy family.  In fact, we provide follow-up consultations with a certified genetic counselor to discuss your results if you test positive and help you navigate your journey to a future healthy family.  

As an adult, it’s never too early to plan ahead by getting genetic testing. Whatever your Jewish ancestry, all Jewish singles or couples starting to think about their future plans are at an ideal time to learn about carrier status. Screening should take place before pregnancy; early planning leaves time to consider all of your options and find the right path for your family.

Visit JScreen.org and use the coupon code JGSAW for a $36 discount on your screening kit and program. 

Headquartered in Atlanta at Emory University’s Department of Human Genetics, JScreen is a national non-profit offering at-home comprehensive and affordable genetic testing and counseling.

ReproGEN – determines risk for having a child with a genetic disease

CancerGEN – tests for genetic changes that increase risk for many types of cancer

If a person or couples’ risk is elevated, genetic counselors will privately address the results, options and resources to help plan for a healthy future.

JScreen believes that a combination of education, access to state-of-the-art testing technology, and personalized support by qualified medical professionals are key to preventing devastating genetic diseases.