We are delighted to hear that BRCA testing for people with Jewish ancestry will become a permanent NHS service.
This is fantastic news for our community and a major step forward for cancer prevention.
Jnetics has long advocated for permanent access to BRCA testing because we know that identifying people at increased risk before cancer develops gives them the opportunity to access specialist care, make informed decisions, and ultimately prevent cancers or detect them at an earlier, more treatable stage.
The impact of the NHS Jewish BRCA Testing Programme has already been extraordinary. Nearly 44,000 people registered for testing and more than 700 BRCA carriers have been identified. For many individuals and families, this was the first time they became aware of an inherited cancer risk, enabling them to take proactive steps to protect their health.
As the official community outreach and engagement partner for the programme, Jnetics is incredibly proud of the role we have played in raising awareness across the Jewish community and helping thousands of people access potentially life-saving information. We are equally proud to have worked alongside NHS England, Professor Ranjit Manchanda, Chai Cancer Care, clinicians, researchers, volunteers and partner organisations whose dedication has helped make this programme such a success.
Today’s announcement reflects years of evidence, collaboration and advocacy, and we are thrilled to see BRCA testing become a permanent part of NHS care for the Jewish community.
However, our work is far from finished. While significant progress has been made, there are still many more people to reach, more families to educate, and more individuals who could benefit from understanding their inherited cancer risk.
Jnetics remains here for the community. Whether you have questions about BRCA, hereditary cancer risk, family history or genetic testing, our team is here to help.
Today is a day to celebrate progress, partnership and the power of prevention.
