What is the purpose of the study?

This study aims to better understand how the bacteria and microorganisms in your gut (intestines) are connected to certain digestive disorders, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and others. We want to see how these microorganisms change over time and how they might be related to your diet and overall health.

Why is this study important?

This study is important because the exact cause of these digestive disorders is not fully understood, especially in Malaysia. By learning more about the bacteria in the gut, we hope to improve how these disorders are diagnosed and treated, which could benefit many people in the future.

What type of study is this?

This is a long-term observational study(longitudinal study). This means we will observe and collect information from you over a period of time without changing anything about your treatment or lifestyle.

How long will I be involved in this study?

You will be involved in the study for approximately three years, with sample collection and questionnaires happening every 9-12 months.

What will happen to any samples I give?

The samples you provide will be used only for this study. They will be securely stored and may be analyzed for related research in the future in compliance with ethical and regulatory guidelines. Specimens will be processed at Monash University Malaysia. Unprocessed samples will be securely stored at -80°C at the earliest opportunity. All specimens and data will be handled in compliance with ethical and regulatory guidelines, ensuring the utmost confidentiality and security.

At the end of the study, any remaining samples may be retained for future research for seven (7) years, subject to your consent. Specimens no longer required will be destroyed following institutional policies to ensure proper disposal.

Will my medical information be kept private?

All information obtained in the study will be kept and handled in a confidential manner, in accordance with applicable laws and/or regulations. This study has been approved by the Monash University Human Research Ethics Committee (MUHREC) [Project ID: ]. Only researchers involved in this study will access your data while your study data will be securely stored in password protected spreadsheets. Deidentified data may be shared on the ROBOT platform and DNA sequencing data deposited in GenBank for research purposes. When publishing or presenting the study results, your identity will not be revealed without your expressed consent. 

Will I be informed of the study findings?

You will receive a simple report of the diversity and composition of your gut microbiota. We will highlight in the report if any abnormal findings were detected. The overall study results will not be informed to you. However, it will be available in the form of journal publication.

Who should I contact if I have questions?

If you have any questions about the study, you may contact Associate Professor Dr Chong Chun Wie (ChongChunWie@monash.edu), Professor Dr. Lee Yeong Yeh (yylee@usm.my), Associate Professor Dr. Chuah Kee Huat (khchuah@um.edu.my) or Dr. Deborah Chew Chia Hsin (deborah_cch@ukm.edu.my) for further information.