What is BRCA?
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes we all have. When working correctly, they help repair DNA damage and prevent cancer. But some people carry a fault or mutation in one of these genes, which significantly increases their risk of certain cancers:
- Breast
- Ovarian
- Prostate
- Pancreatic
These genetic faults can be passed down from either parent and affect both men and women.
NHS England is now offering free BRCA gene testing for anyone living in England, aged 18 or over with one or more Jewish grandparent, of any type of Jewish origin (Ashkenazi, Sephardi, Mizrahi etc).
Register your interest for genetic testing via the NHS online form.
Cancer Risks with BRCA Gene Faults
Everyone faces some risk of developing cancer in their lifetime, but having a BRCA gene fault can significantly increase that risk, particularly for breast, ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancers.
When it comes to ovarian cancer, the risk for the general population is about 1.5%. But for those with a BRCA1 fault, the risk increases to between 36% and 53%. For those with a BRCA2 fault, the lifetime risk is between 11% and 25%.
It’s important to remember that while these numbers represent average estimates, individual risk can vary depending on other factors, such as family history, lifestyle, and environmental exposures. The key takeaway is that BRCA gene faults significantly raise the likelihood of developing certain cancers, which is why identifying and managing these risks early can be lifesaving.
Jewish Ancestry and BRCA
If you have Jewish ancestry, Ashkenazi, Sephardi, Mizrahi or otherwise, you may be at increased risk of carrying a BRCA gene fault:
- 1 in 40 Ashkenazi Jews
- 1 in 140 Sephardi Jews
- Compared to 1 in 250 in the general UK population
Because of this elevated risk, NHS England is now offering free BRCA testing for anyone aged 18 or over with at least one Jewish grandparent.
About the genetic testing programme
What the testing programme involves
Getting tested is simple, discreet, and free:
- Register your interest online or via the genetic counselling helpline: +44 20 3437 6001
- Receive a saliva testing kit by post
- Review the pre-test information
- Send back your completed forms and sample
- Get your results by post
If a BRCA gene fault is found:
- You’ll receive a call from a trained genetic counsellor
- You’ll be referred to your regional NHS genetics service to discuss next steps and risk-reduction options
Before you test – things to consider
BRCA testing is personal, and knowing your result can have emotional and practical implications. Consider the following:
- How will this information affect you emotionally?
- Are you planning a family?
- How might your result impact relatives?
- Is this the right time in your life to take this step?
You can talk things through first:
- NHS Genetic Counsellor Helpline: +44 20 3437 6001
(Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm, extended to 7pm Wednesdays) - Chai Cancer Care Counsellors: 0808 808 4567
FAQs
Why Now?
This NHS programme is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to catch cancer risk before it becomes cancer. It is open to all eligible individuals in England, regardless of family history.
Similar nationwide testing is already offered in Israel. By expanding access here, we can prevent more cancers and save more lives in the UK’s Jewish community.
The programme is due to close in Autumn 2025 - so we encourage you to get tested sooner rather than later.
Yes, if you’re 18+ and have at least one Jewish grandparent. If you're unsure of your grandparents heritage, it is worth having the conversation with your GP.
Absolutely, BRCA gene faults affect both men and women. You can find out more about men and BRCA on our hereditary hub.
Currently, this programme is only available to residents of England. Please speak to your GP if you want to get tested outside of England.
Yes, this testing is recommended even without a cancer diagnosis or known family mutation.
You can check your eligibility using our hereditary cancer risk calculator to better understand what may affect your cancer risk and support your conversion with your GP.