NHS Jewish BRCA testing is for all of us - sign up before it’s too late - The Jewish Chronicle

Just over a year ago, NHS England, in collaboration with Jnetics and Chai Cancer Care, launched the groundbreaking NHS Jewish BRCA testing programme. Since then, an incredible 25,000 people have registered for tests, highlighting the community’s commitment to proactive health measures. With just one year left before the programme ends, we urge you not to delay in signing up. The programme offers free BRCA gene testing to anyone in England aged 18 or over with at least one Jewish grandparent. The test, a simple at-home saliva kit, provides vital information about your genetic predisposition to hereditary cancers.

For individuals in the Jewish community, the stakes are particularly high. Around one in 40 Ashkenazi Jews and one in 140 Sephardi Jews carries a BRCA mutation, compared to about one in 250 in the general UK population. These mutations significantly increase the risk of developing certain cancers, including breast, ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancers. Up to 40 per cent of ovarian cancer cases and 10 per cent of breast cancer cases in the Jewish community are linked to BRCA gene mutations.

BRCA mutations are hereditary, with a 50 per cent chance of being passed from parent to child. This highlights why the Jewish BRCA testing programme has been such a milestone for both cancer prevention and genetic health awareness in our community.

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Success Stories: Empowerment through knowledge

The transformative impact of the programme can best be understood through the stories of those who have participated:

Leah’s Story: Peace of mind

Leah, a 32-year-old mother of two, decided to take the test after learning about the programme at her synagogue. “I’d always wondered if I could be at risk because my grandmother passed away from breast cancer,” she says. When her results came back negative for BRCA mutations, Leah described an overwhelming sense of relief. “Now I know that my children and I aren’t at risk from this particular genetic factor. It’s given me peace of mind I never knew I needed.”

David’s story: Taking action

David, 48, discovered he carried a BRCA mutation through the programme. Initially, he felt anxious about the implications for his health and his family. However, with support from Jewish charities Jnetics and Chai, he was able to access additional screening and consultations with a specialist.

“Knowing I’m a carrier means I can be proactive,” says David. “I’ve already encouraged my siblings and children to get tested, and I feel empowered to make informed decisions about my health.”

Time is of the essence

The NHS Jewish BRCA Testing Programme is part of NHS England’s ten-year cancer plan, designed to catch more cancers early and save lives. Its success could pave the way for similar initiatives in other communities, making it an essential blueprint for the future of genetic health.

However, the programme is available for only one more year. This is your chance to take control of your health and potentially safeguard the well-being of your loved ones. If you’ve been considering testing but haven’t yet acted, now is the time.

Expert support every step of the way

We understand that the idea of genetic testing can feel daunting. The implications of a positive result are significant, and the emotional weight can be heavy. That’s why Jnetics and Chai Cancer Care are deeply committed to supporting everyone involved in the programme. From pre-test counselling to follow-up care, their expert teams ensure that every participant feels informed, supported, and empowered.

How to get tested

Getting tested couldn’t be easier. Simply go to jewishbrca.org to learn more about the programme and register for your free at-home saliva test kit. The process is quick, non-invasive and accessible to anyone with Jewish heritage, regardless of religious affiliation or level of observance.

Knowledge is power

For those who discover they are BRCA-positive, knowledge truly is power. Being armed with this information opens doors to further testing, enhanced screening and preventative measures that could save lives. Whether it’s increased surveillance, lifestyle changes, or discussions about preventative treatments, the options available today are more effective than ever.

As we approach the final year of this life-changing programme, let’s ensure every eligible person in our community has the opportunity to participate. Genetics don’t discriminate, and neither does the Jewish BRCA testing programme. Whether you’re Orthodox, Reform, or completely unaffiliated; if you are male, female, or simply curious about your heritage, this test could make all the difference.

Don’t wait for the programme to close before taking action. Go to jewishbrca.org today to register for your test.

If you have your testing kit at home, don’t delay and send it back as soon as possible. In doing so, you’re not only investing in your own health but also contributing to a brighter, healthier future for our community.

The NHS Jewish BRCA Testing Programme is a project from Jnetics and Chai Cancer Care. jnetics.org, registered charity 1134935. Chai, chaicancercare.org, registered charity 1078956

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