Jscreen and Manischewitz to host genetic testing events

In recognition of Cancer Prevention Month in February, jscreen®, the national nonprofit health initiative that aims to prevent genetic diseases by promoting accessible testing and education, is partnering with Manischewitz® to host cancer genetic testing events in New York City focused on prevention, early detection, and informed health decisions.

Award-winning author and humorist Gila Pfeffer will appear at the first event, on Sunday, February 8, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, as part of the JCC’s Fitness Open House.

Pfeffer, a 17-year breast cancer previvor and survivor and the advocate behind the “Feel It on the First” breast health awareness campaign, will offer her perspective on early detection, self-advocacy, and proactive health conversations. Her memoir, “Nearly Departed: Adventures in Loss, Cancer, and Other Inconveniences,” won the 2024 Gilda Radner Women’s Book Award. Pfeffer works with jscreen.org to spread the word about the importance of genetic testing.

Another screening hosted by jscreen and Manischewitz will take place Wednesday, February 11, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Yeshiva University’s Gottesman Building. The event will offer reproductive carrier screening and on-site test kit pickup.

“This collaboration brings together health education, community engagement, and meaningful conversation around prevention,” said jscreen CEO Dr. Matt Goldstein. “By aligning with Cancer Prevention Month, we’re encouraging people to take proactive steps toward understanding their genetic risks and protecting their future health.”

Participants may have access to the following screenings, depending on location: Reproductive Carrier Screen (evaluates hundreds of genetic conditions common in Jewish and other communities, enabling families to plan for healthy pregnancies; and Hereditary Cancer Test (identifies genetic mutations linked to such cancers as breast, ovarian, and colorectal, allowing for prevention or early diagnosis and treatment).

Register for screening events at jscreen.org. February 8 event code: 2026MMJCCM; upfront fee per test: $18. Lab fees are billed to insurance, with many participants paying little to no out-of-pocket cost, depending on coverage. Test kits are distributed on site.

— jscreen, Manischewitz