Promoting Jewish genetic health since 1999.
The Norton & Elaine Sarnoff Center for Jewish Genetics provides educational resources related to hereditary cancers and genetic disorders more common among individuals of Jewish descent. We work closely with community members, clergy, healthcare professionals, and partner organizations to raise awareness of these issues and available support options, including our own low-to-no cost genetic counseling and genetic screening programs.
Originally founded as The Chicago Center for Jewish Genetic Disorders in 1999, the Norton & Elaine Sarnoff Center for Jewish Genetics today offers resources to communities across North America and the world, while continuing its service focus in the Chicago Jewish community.
The Norton & Elaine Sarnoff Center for Jewish Genetics is a supporting foundation of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, and is supported in part by the Michael Reese Health Trust.
Articles and Events
Elisha’s Story (Video)
Elisha learned she had a BRCA1 mutation after her mother’s ovarian cancer diagnosis. She undergoes regular screenings and chose preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) to prevent the BRCA mutation from being passed to her children. Watch Elisha's story.
Heidi’s Story (Video)
Heidi learned she had a BRCA1 mutation through a 23&Me test, even though she did not know about any family history of cancer. After consulting with a genetic counselor, Heidi underwent preventative surgeries. Watch Heidi's story.
Jordyn’s Story (Video)
Jordyn got screened for a BRCA mutation at age 25, knowing many relatives on her father’s side of the family battled cancer. After testing positive, she had a preventive double mastectomy. Watch Jordyn's story.
