The Sarnoff Center’s screening program uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), which is the most advanced form of testing available today and provides the most accurate detection rates. NGS screening requires either a blood or a saliva sample. Most participants in our screening program provide a saliva sample. In some cases, a participant may want or need to provide a blood sample instead.
If you get screened through your healthcare provider, keep in mind that different laboratories use different methods of sample collection and provide testing using different technologies. Most NGS panels include most, or all, of the Jewish genetic disorders, as well as a number of other pan-ethnic conditions. But, the type of testing and number of conditions that doctors order can vary. It’s important to tell your doctor about your (or your partner’s) Jewish ancestry and ask about the screening they order.
