Genetic testing is especially important for Ashkenazic Jews. Jews descending from Eastern and Central Europe are more susceptible to being carriers of diseases like Tay-Sachs or Gaucher. When having a baby, knowing your genetic risk becomes even more important.

Below are centers in the Boston area that specialize in testing for Jewish genetic diseases:

Victor Outreach and Screening Program for Ashkenazi Jewish Genetic Diseases
The Victor Program provides preconception counseling and screening for Tay-Sachs, Canavan, Niemann-Pick A, Gaucher Disease Type I, Familial Dysautonomia, Bloom Syndrome, Fanconi Anemia Type C, Cystic Fibrosis, Glycogen Storage Disease Type Ia, Mucolipidosis IV, and Maple Syrup Urine Disease. For couples found to be at increased risk, reproductive counseling, prenatal diagnosis and treatment will be coordinated. The program also provides education in the community and at college and graduate school campuses.

Boston, MA 02111
617-636-7721
jewishgeneticscreening.org

BU School of Medicine - Center for Human Genetics
Many indications exist for genetic counseling. Referrals are especially recommended in various situations, such as family history of genetic disorder, carrier testing due to specific ethnic backgrounds, and a previous child with a birth defect. 

Boston, MA 02118
617-638-7083
bumc.bu.edu/hg

Genzyme Genetics - Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory
Arrangements for testing through a health professional is required. Testing is available at this laboratory for 10 other Jewish genetic diseases, carrier, prenatal and diagnostic.

Westborough, MA 01581
508-898-9001
genzymegenetics.com/About-Us/Locations.aspx

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