Sephardim talk testing

Although we have focused on genetic disorders affecting Ashkenazism, there are other genetic conditions which are far more common among Sephardim. These include Familial Mediterranean Fever, Metachromatic Leukodystrophy, and Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1A.

In July, Dor Yesh-orim, the Charedi community's genetic screening programme, introduced testing for a range of diseases more likely to affect Sephardi Jews (some diseases thought of as solely affecting Ashkenazim, like Cystic Fibrosis, can also affect Sephardim).

With Sephardim, the likelihood of being a carrier for a specific genetic disease can depend on country or area of origin.

Familial Mediterranean Fever, for example, is more common among Jews in Iran, Iraq and Mediterranean countries. Metachromatic Leukodystrophy is much more likely to affect Yemenite Habbani Jews. Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1A occurs most often among Jews from Egypt.

"Because the genetic base for the Sephardim historically is much more diverse, it's not something that really is in the general consciousness of the Sephardi community," says Joseph Dweck, senior rabbi of the UK's Spanish and Portuguese (S&P) Sephardi Community.

To bring education is something for leaders to think about

"To bring some of the education and awareness to the community as to what the risks are and respond accordingly is something for Sephardi community leaders to think about."

Dr Joey Ziff, assistant director of Jnetics, makes clear that in the light of scientific advancements, "we are keen, as our resources grow, to consider expanding our panel to include [genetic disorders] that are more prevalent in the Sephardi population".