Tens of thousands of people with Jewish ancestry are set to benefit from a pioneering BRCA gene testing programme unveiled by the NHS.
The BRCA gene testing initiative aims to identify individuals carrying genetic faults associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, enabling early access to vital surveillance and prevention services.
BRCA genes and cancer risk
The programme targets faults in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which typically play a crucial role in DNA repair and cancer prevention.
However, individuals born with faults in these genes face heightened susceptibility to various cancers, including breast, ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancer.
Notably, those with Jewish ancestry are approximately six times more likely to carry such genetic mutations compared to the general population.
While possessing an altered BRCA gene doesn’t guarantee cancer development, understanding the heightened risk empowers individuals to make informed decisions.
Options range from regular screenings and lifestyle adjustments to more proactive measures like risk-reducing surgeries or medications.
By proactively addressing their risk profile, participants can access necessary support from the NHS, enhancing their chances of early detection and effective treatment.
National NHS Jewish BRCA Testing Programme
The newly launched initiative dubbed the National NHS Jewish BRCA Testing Programme, offers individuals over 18 with Jewish heritage a straightforward saliva test to detect BRCA1 or BRCA2 faults.
The convenience of at-home saliva sample collection, followed by laboratory testing, ensures accessibility and ease of participation.
During the pilot phase, thousands have already undergone testing, with plans to expand the programme’s reach to approximately 30,000 individuals over the next two years.
Interested participants with at least one Jewish grandparent can request a saliva kit through the programme’s online portal.
To bolster community engagement and awareness, organisations like Jnetics and Chai Cancer Care have been actively promoting the initiative within Jewish communities.
Their efforts aim to encourage widespread participation among both men and women, emphasising the importance of early detection and intervention.
Peter Johnson, National Clinical Director for Cancer at NHS England, commented: “BRCA testing for the people most at risk has the potential to save lives by allowing them to take steps to reduce the chance of cancers developing or making sure that any cancer can be detected as early as possible, with those at increased risk able to take advantage of surveillance and prevention programmes with their health teams.
“We know it can be daunting finding out whether or not you have an altered BRCA gene, and some people may feel they’d rather not know, but finding out early means people can get the support they need from the NHS.
“We want as many people as possible to take advantage of this testing programme, so please do come forward for a simple saliva test if you are eligible – most people won’t have an altered gene, but if you do, the NHS can provide you with further testing, surveillance or treatment as early as possible.”
The NHS’s innovative BRCA gene testing program represents a significant stride in personalised healthcare, offering individuals of Jewish ancestry invaluable insights into their cancer risk profile and avenues for proactive management.
