As hygiene concerns grow in developed countries, the ‘hygiene hypothesis’ is being explored, which links improved hygiene to immune-related diseases such as type 1 diabetes.
The Diabimmune project in Europe is studying the lifestyles of children in Finland, Russian Karelia and Estonia. Researchers are comparing high rates of diabetes in Finland with lower rates in Russian Karelia, despite similar environments. The study aims to identify microbes important for immune system development, which may be affected by modern hygiene practices and processed foods. The findings suggest potential public health implications, with the aim of developing preventive therapies such as vaccines or probiotics.
The research, which was completed in 2014, offers promising insights into how to improve immune health.
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