Get information about genetic conditions, find resources, access genetic screening, and more
Genetic disorders occur when one or both copies of a gene have undergone a change, or mutation. Because of the common ancestry that many Jews share, some conditions appear in the Jewish population more frequently than in the general population. Many Jewish genetic disorders are passed down in an autosomal recessive fashion, which means they can hide in families until two carriers have a child with the disorder. Tay-Sachs is perhaps the most well-known Jewish genetic disorder, but there are many others.
We’re here to help. The Norton & Elaine Sarnoff Center for Jewish Genetics has information to answer your general questions about genetics, Jewish genetic disorders (including those more common among Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews), carrier screening, and how Jewish law and ethics relate to genetic health.
Articles and Events
Should I Get Screened Again?
While our DNA doesn’t change, technology does. Check in with your doctor or a contact the Sarnoff Center's genetic counselor to learn whether you should consider re-screening prior to pregnancy.
Fragile X Awareness
July is Fragile X Awareness Month. Fragile X syndrome is a condition that leads to intellectual disability and is prevalent in the Ashkenazi Jewish population.
Proactive Choices for You and Your Baby’s Health
Any parent-to-be wants to provide their child with a healthy life, and prenatal genetic tests can help. There are a wide variety of genetic tests available, including carrier screening, diagnostic testing, and aneuploidy screening.
