Jewish Genetic Disorders
There are about 6,000 genetic disorders affecting one in 25 children; in the UK, 30,000 babies and children are newly diagnosed each year.
Some genetic disorders are apparent at birth while others are diagnosed at different stages throughout childhood and sometimes into adolescence.
Anybody of Jewish ancestry has a 1 in 3 chance of carrying one or more of 47 severe recessive Jewish genetic disorders.
1 in 40 people of Ashkenazi Jewish origin and 1 in 140 of Sephardi Jewish origin have a BRCA gene mutation compared to 1 in 250 of the general population.
Tay-Sachs Disease is a rare inherited condition that mainly affects babies and young children of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry; it is caused by a problem in the child’s genes that means their nerves stop working properly.
A child can only have Tay-Sachs Disease if both parents have this faulty gene – the parents themselves don’t usually have any symptoms. This is known as being a carrier.
Planning a pregnancy?
Carrier screening helps identify if you are at increased risk of passing on a severe genetic disorder and enables you to consider the different options available to reduce the chances of having an affected child. The screening test for Tay-Sachs Disease is funded by the NHS and you can be referred to the local NHS Genetics Services by a GP.
Jnetics is the only cross communal charity in the UK dedicated to the prevention and diagnosis of Jewish genetic disorders (JGDs). They do this by raising awareness and facilitating access to the best available information, responsible carrier screening services and support for those affected and at risk.
Jnetics can be contacted by calling 0208 158 5123 or emailing