"Absolutely get tested — so that you can know. Whatever choice you want to make, at least you know the cards you’re dealt… I believe that knowledge is power and without the knowledge we could not have made the choices that were best for us."

Marissa Woods
Canavan carrier married to a Canavan carrier, mother of a healthy 3-year-old girl

Providing support through education and interaction is central to the mission of the Chicago Center for Jewish Genetic Disorders. When prospective parents know what their genes hold, they are prepared to make the best decisions for themselves and their families. Click through the links on the left for overviews of single-gene disorders with increased incidence in both Ashkenazi and Sephardi populations, as well as extensive links to more specialized organizations for research and support.

Learn more about genetics and genetic disorders featured in documentary works at our Genetics Multimedia page.