Routledge Risky Genes: Genetics, Breast Cancer and Jewish Identity

Risky Genes examines the profound personal and social implications of genetic breast cancer risk for Ashkenazi Jewish women. With the highest known population prevalence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, this community faces distinctive challenges in understanding genetic predisposition and medical decision-making. This Routledge book presents first-hand intimate accounts from women navigating the intersection of Jewish identity, genetic risk assessment, and cancer prevention strategies. As population-based genetic medicine advances, understanding how high-risk communities process and respond to genetic information becomes increasingly vital. The work addresses the cultural, medical, and psychological dimensions of living with elevated genetic disease risk, offering valuable perspectives for patients, healthcare professionals, genetic counsellors, and researchers working in oncology and medical genetics.