Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
What is Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry risk?
Ashkenazi Jewish people make up about 80% of the world’s Jewish population. People with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry have a 1 in 40 chance of carrying a mutation in the BRCA gene that can put them at high risk of developing breast, ovarian, prostate or other cancers. This is much higher than the general population’s risk of 1 in 400 chance of carrying a gene mutation that causes cancer.
Both men and women with the gene mutation can pass these changed genes to their children.
If you are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, it is a good idea to talk with your family about their health and cancer history. If you or a family member have been diagnosed with breast, ovarian or prostate cancer, this genetic information can help you and your family make important decisions about how to manage any cancer risk. This includes:
- How to lower your chances of getting cancer
- What sort of check-ups or screening can help find cancer early
- What this means for children you might have.
Hear more from our Ashkenazi Jewish community
Genetic testing
After you have investigated your family health history, you may want to talk to your general practitioner (GP) about genetic testing to identify your cancer risk. See the Genetic testing page for more information.
Have a question relating to your family history?
You are not alone
Inherited Cancers Australia has many community members with an Ashkenazi Jewish background. Join our online support groups where you can ask questions and get advice from people who share this risk.
For more advice and support, Sharsheret is an American based organisation that provides cancer support specifically for the Jewish community.
