How Does This Affect Me?

Jewish genetic disorders can affect all Jews, regardless of religious background, and while marriage may seem a long way off, and having children even further, being aware of gene mutations and how they affect the Jewish community is important at any age. If you are wondering what exactly Jewish genetic disorders are, or if you would like to learn more about a specific disorder, please see the Jewish Genetic Disorders section of the site. If you would like to learn more about cancer genetics, please see the Cancer Genetics section.

As a young adult, you may begin to notice a history of various disorders or cancers in your family or even amongst siblings. Getting tested for gene mutations can allow you to prepare for the future, either in living a healthier lifestyle to decrease the chances of developing various cancers or in being aware of future options when planning a family.

As many as 1 in 5 Ashkenazim are carriers for recessive diseases, so there is a chance that you and someone you know, are dating or are marrying could be a carrier for the same disease. If your parent is a carrier for a disease or you have a sibling with a genetic disorder, there is a fifty percent chance that you are also a carrier. That being said, with the reproductive technologies available today, the knowledge of one’s status as a carrier can go a long way.