ENHANCING MICROBIOTA-RELATED GUT HEALTH AWARENESS ACROSS AGE GROUPS: OUTCOMES OF INTERACTIVE EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES AT A SCIENCE FAIR

Abstract The human gastrointestinal tract is host to a complex community of microorganisms called gut microbiota that is crucial for maintaining health through various metabolic, immunological and protective functions. Despite their significance, public awareness of gut microbiota remains limited among children and adults. This study aimed to assess and enhance public awareness through an interactive educational session conducted during a science fair in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The session was facilitated by undergraduate and postgraduate students from a medical faculty, whereby 324 participants aged five to 64 engaged in interactive activities that included informational posters and quizzes. Participants' prior knowledge and post-session outcomes including their willingness to incorporate fruits and vegetables into their daily diet to promote healthy gut microbiota were evaluated using a questionnaire. Results from the evaluation of the questionnaire found that 77.9% of the participants acknowledged increased awareness, indicating that exposure to the activities brought about a significant rise in gut microbiota awareness. Additionally, 85.3% indicated a willingness to increase their intake of fruits and vegetables in their daily meals, while 60.5% showed readiness to bring fruit for breaks at school or work. Continued efforts involving university students in community engagement programs enhance their understanding of local needs, while the involvement of academicians integrates recent research findings into the public's awareness, ensuring the sharing of scientific knowledge.