1st edition of the International Microbiota Observatory
Microbiota: essential to health, but limited global awareness
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About this article
The microbiota is made up of billions of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.) that live in symbiosis with our body. We do not only have a gut microbiota, but also a skin microbiota, a mouth and lung microbiota, a urinary and vaginal microbiota, etc. All of them make an essential contribution to our health. But is everyone currently aware of the role of microbiota? Do they know how to look after their microbiota? Are they suffering from health problems that they associate with the microbiota? What role do healthcare professionals presently play in informing patients?
To answer these questions, the Biocodex Microbiota Institute commissioned Ipsos to conduct a major international survey of 6,500 people in 7 countries (France, Spain, Portugal, US, Brazil, Mexico and China), called the International Microbiota Observatory.
This exclusive survey reveals a general lack of understanding of the microbiota’s contribution to health, and underlines the essential role of healthcare professionals in imparting knowledge.
The results were presented on June 27, 2023, on the occasion of World Microbiome Day.
International Microbiota Observatory
"This first-of-its-kind Observatory has provided a wealth of information on the knowledge, behaviors and expectations of the world’s populations with regard to human microbiota. We should also mention the key role played by healthcare professionals in raising awareness of the right behaviors for looking after microbiota."
About the Microbiota Institute
The Biocodex Microbiota Institute is an international hub of knowledge that aims to foster better health by spreading information about human microbiota. To do so, the Institute addresses both healthcare professionals and the general public to raise awareness about the central role of this little-known organ.
