Publications by authors named "Anika Chicken"
Front Reprod Health
November 2024
Article Synopsis
- Depletion of species in the vaginal tract leads to bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is linked to poor reproductive health and higher risk of STIs; current antibiotic treatments have low success rates.
- A study conducted in Cape Town explored blood donors' knowledge and attitudes toward vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) as a potential alternative treatment for BV through a questionnaire.
- Results showed a significant majority (86%) of women were open to donating vaginal samples, with willingness increased by a belief in helping others and prior knowledge of healthy vaginal microbiomes; concerns about discomfort and embarrassment affected those unwilling to donate.
S Afr J Infect Dis
October 2024
Article Synopsis
- A study was conducted in South Africa to assess the feasibility of establishing a stool donor bank in collaboration with WCBS and UCT, focusing on the willingness of blood donors to donate stool samples for microbiome research.
- The survey, conducted with 209 blood donors, revealed that compensation and the perceived societal benefits significantly influenced the willingness to donate, while age also played a minor role.
- The findings highlight important factors for potential donors and mark the first investigation into the perspectives of participants for a stool microbiome biobank in South Africa, which is crucial for fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).
