Host Community Genetic Testing Event for Cancer Prevention Month, With Additional New York Screening Planned
Community-Wide Genetic Testing Events in New York City on February 8 and February 11
In recognition of February Cancer Prevention Month, jscreen, the national nonprofit focused on preventing genetic diseases through accessible testing and education, is partnering with Manischewitz to host community-based cancer genetic testing and education events in New York City focused on prevention, early detection and informed health decisions. The initiative includes a February 8 screening event at MMJCCM featuring Manischewitz and author and health advocate Gila Pfeffer, as well as an additional New York City screening hosted by jscreen and Manischewitz at Yeshiva University later in the month to expand community access to testing.
The February 8 New York City genetic screening event, hosted in partnership with Manischewitz and author and health advocate Gila Pfeffer, will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. as part of the MMJCCM Fitness Open House at MMJCCM, 334 Amsterdam Ave at 76th Street, New York, NY 10023. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about their genetic health in a supportive, community-centered environment.
The February 11 New York City screening will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Yeshiva University’s Nagel Lobby in the Gottesman Building. The event will offer reproductive carrier screening and on-site test kit pickup as part of jscreen and Manischewitz’s Cancer Prevention Month programming.
Participants may have access to the following screenings, depending on event location:
- Reproductive Carrier Screen – Evaluates hundreds of genetic conditions, including Tay-Sachs, that are common in Jewish and other communities, enabling families to plan for healthy pregnancies.
- Hereditary Cancer Test – Identifies genetic mutations linked to cancers such as breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancer, allowing for prevention or early diagnosis and treatment.
Adding a powerful personal voice to the February 8 MMJCCM event, attendees will have the opportunity to meet Gila Pfeffer, author, content creator, and health advocate behind the “Feel It on the First” breast health awareness campaign. Pfeffer brings a real-world perspective on early detection, self-advocacy, and proactive health conversations.
Guests can also enjoy offerings from the Manischewitz Food Truck, adding a warm, community-driven element to a day centered on wellness and prevention.
“This collaboration brings together health education, community engagement, and meaningful conversation around prevention,” said Dr. Matt Goldstein, CEO of jscreen. “By aligning with Cancer Prevention Month, we’re encouraging people to take proactive steps toward understanding their genetic risks and protecting their future health.”
Genetic Testing Event Dates and Locations
MMJCCM, NYC
February 8, 2026
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
MMJCCM
334 Amsterdam Ave at 76th Street
New York, NY 10023
Yeshiva University, NYC
February 11, 2026
11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Nagel Lobby, Gottesman Building
Yeshiva University
2520 Amsterdam Avenue
New York, NY 10033
Registration & Testing Details
• Register at jscreen.org
• February 8 – MMJCCM event code: 2026MMJCCM
• February 11 – Yeshiva University event code: 2026YU
• $18 upfront fee per test
• 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 at each event
About Gila Pfeffer
Gila Pfeffer is an award-winning author, humorist, breast cancer prevention advocate, and speaker. Her recent memoir, Nearly Departed: Adventures in Loss, Cancer, and Other Inconveniences won the 2024 Gilda Radner Women’s Book Award and has been described as heartbreakingly hilarious and lifesaving. Gila’s writing has appeared in The New York Times, The New Yorker, McSweeney’s, Oprah Daily, TODAY, and more. A 17-year breast cancer previvor and survivor, she speaks to international audiences about women’s health, prevention, and the power of humor in the face of adversity. Her monthly Feel It on the First campaign uses humor and tongue-in-cheek photos to remind women to prioritize their breast health. She lives in NYC and London.
About jscreen®
jscreen is a national non-profit public health initiative dedicated to preventing genetic diseases. The program provides convenient at-home access to cutting-edge genetic testing, education, and confidential genetic counseling. jscreen believes that education, access, and compassionate support are the keys to preventing devastating diseases. For more information, visit www.jscreen.org.
About Manischewitz®
Founded more than 130 years ago, Manischewitz is one of America’s most iconic food brands and a trusted household name synonymous with quality, tradition, and innovation. From classic pantry staples to modern culinary offerings, Manischewitz continues to nourish generations while celebrating culture, community, and the evolving tastes of today’s consumers. The brand remains committed to bringing people together through meaningful food experiences. Learn more at www.manischewitz.com.
