If you are …
18 years of age or over AND
Eligible for NHS care in England AND
Have one or more Jewish grandparents (Ashkenazi, Sephardi, Mizrahi…etc).
You may be eligible to have free BRCA gene testing to detect faulty BRCA genes – and this could save your life!
What Are BRCA Genes?
We all carry BRCA genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2) which play an important role in the prevention of cancer.
If you carry a faulty BRCA gene, it can significantly increase your risk of developing cancers such as breast, ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancer.
Why Is There A Jewish BRCA Gene Testing Programme?
The risk of having a faulty BRCA gene is significantly higher in people with Jewish ancestry compared to the UK general population (1 in 250):
- Ashkenazi Jews = 1 in 40
- Sephardi Jews = 1 in 140
It is also known that 10% of ovarian cancer cases and up to 40% of breast cancer cases are associated with a BRCA gene fault in the Jewish community.
If a BRCA gene fault is identified early, individualised advice and management can be provided to reduce your personal risk of developing these cancers.
How Do I Get Tested?
You can express your interest calling the genetic counselling helpline or completing the form below on their website (link below):
Form: https://nhsjewishbrcaprogramme.org.uk
Genetic Counselling Helpline: +442034376001
If you are confirmed to be eligible for BRCA gene testing, you will receive a screening pack in the post and will need to follow the instructions carefully to provide a saliva sample and send it back for testing.