Publications by authors named "Kirsten Welp"
Purpose Of Review: Women in Africa bear the burden of the HIV epidemic, which has been associated with the high prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) in the region. However, little progress has been made in finding an effective cure for BV. Drawing on advances in microbiome-directed therapies for gastrointestinal disorders, similar live-biotherapeutic based approaches for BV treatment are being evaluated.
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- 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.
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).