FAQs

Find answers to commonly asked questions about our genetic testing and services.

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General Questions

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Carrier Screening Heading

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Cancer Screening Heading

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Jewish Genetic Testing

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Carrier Screening

Should I consider testing if I am adopted?

Yes. The panel includes testing for more than 260 genetic diseases that are commonly found in people with many different backgrounds. Therefore, it is valuable for anyone planning a pregnancy.

Cancer Screening

What is genetic cancer testing?

Hereditary Cancer screening is a test to determine if an individual has an inherited genetic change that makes them more likely to develop cancer. 

This test analyzes 48 cancer-predisposition genes (including BRCA1 and BRCA2). If there is a harmful mutation in one or more of these genes, it will increase the risk for cancer. Each cancer gene on the panel is associated with specific cancer types and varying degrees of risk. 

In many cases, individuals who test positive have options to work with their healthcare providers to reduce the chances of developing cancer or to detect it at an early, treatable stage. Because we share genetic information with our biological family members, a positive result may also alert other relatives to consider testing. For those who have had a cancer diagnosis, knowing the genetic cause may help their doctors adjust their medical management and identify other cancer risks.

This test does not screen for or diagnose cancer.

General

What type of testing does jscreen provide access to?

Hereditary Cancer Test: a cancer screening panel that looks for genetic changes that increase the risk for many types of cancer. The panel analyzes 48 genes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, that are related to heredity cancer. To view a complete list of genes on the panel, click here.

Reproductive Carrier Screen: an expanded carrier screening panel for those who are pregnant or planning to have a biological child in the future. This test is designed to assess an individual or couple’s risk for having a child with a genetic disease. The panel includes more than 260 diseases, such as Tay-Sachs disease, cystic fibrosis, and sickle cell disease. To view a complete list of the conditions on the panel, click here.

General

Why is genetic counseling an important component of my testing experience?

Genetic counselors are board-certified clinical professionals trained to break down complex genetic information and provide emotional support, guidance, and resources to patients and families as they navigate genetic testing and decision making.

We recommend a genetic counseling appointment for all participants coming through JScreen to provide personalized, expert guidance on your genetic testing results and next steps. This session will help you understand your risks and offer valuable support in making informed decisions about your health and family planning. A genetic counselor will address any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring you fully understand the significance of the results for you and your family.

Jewish Genetic Testing

Will you advise me not to get married if we’re both carriers?

jscreen’s goal is to provide information. The genetic counselors do not make recommendations for carrier couples or how to move forward in a relationship. Instead, they discuss the genetic condition of concern, and explain available reproductive options.

jscreen genetic counselors can also connect carrier couples with helpful resources (such as reproductive specialists, disease organizations, rabbis, therapists and others) to help them make family planning decisions.

Should I be tested if...