Is ignorance bliss when it comes to genetic mutations that may put you at increased risk for disease? In the case of Parkinson’s, your health care provider may think so.

A recent study asked clinicians, geneticists and genetic counselors their perspective on testing the Ashkenazi-Jewish population for the BRCA 1/2 and LRRK2 gene mutations. These are linked to increased hereditary risk of breast cancer and Parkinson’s, respectively, and are both more common in this population compared to others. “Slightly more than half (52%) were in favor of BRCA screening, while the vast majority (86%) opposed to LRRK2 screening,” the authors from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem wrote of the study participants’ response.

Of course, there are preventive surgery options and multiple approaches to effectively treat breast cancer. We are not there yet with Parkinson’s. Study respondents cited the psychological impact and availability of preventive and treatment options as considerations for the necessity of genetic screening.

“Genetic testing is an individual choice, and the truth is we don’t have preventative treatments to offer someone who is genetically at risk but does not have Parkinson’s disease. That said, if someone does choose to be tested and share their status, that information can help researchers build and carry out critical studies that will help find the treatments of the future,” says Brian Fiske, PhD, MJFF vice president of research programs.

What do you think? As genetic testing becomes more available, would you want to know your genetic risk for Parkinson’s? MJFF contributing editor Dave Iverson addressed some of the questions surrounding this decision with Phil Reilly, MD, JD, a past president of the American Society of Law, Medicine, and Ethics in a MJFF podcast.

You can participate in Parkinson’s research regardless of your LRRK2 status. Join Fox Trial Finder to find appropriate studies for you in your area.