2024 In Review: Would You Buy Poop On the Internet?
What Next: TBD | Tech, power, and the future
Deep Dive
What is FMT and why is it used?
FMT, or fecal microbiota transplant, is the process of transferring stool from a healthy donor to a recipient to restore healthy gut bacteria. It is primarily used to treat Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infections, but some believe it can help with other conditions like IBS, autism, and mental health issues.
Why do people turn to the internet for FMT?
People often turn to the internet for FMT when traditional medical systems fail them. Many, like Alexandra, feel ignored or dismissed by doctors and seek alternative treatments online, where they find DIY communities and unregulated marketplaces for fecal transplants.
What are the risks of DIY FMT?
DIY FMT carries significant risks, including exposure to unscreened stool that may contain harmful pathogens. There have been cases of people developing infections, such as E. coli, and even deaths linked to improperly screened FMT procedures.
How does the online black market for FMT operate?
The online black market for FMT operates through platforms like Human Microbes, where donors and recipients are matched. Donors fill out questionnaires, and recipients can choose donors based on profiles. Stool is harvested, frozen, and shipped via mail, often without rigorous medical screening.
What do medical professionals think about DIY FMT?
Medical professionals strongly oppose DIY FMT, calling it a 'horrible idea' due to the lack of screening and regulation. They compare it to unsafe practices like bootleg blood transfusions, emphasizing the potential for serious health risks.
What is the FDA's stance on FMT?
The FDA only approves FMT for treating C. diff infections when other treatments fail. It has issued warnings against unregulated FMT practices, such as those by Human Microbes, and requires proper screening and licensing for legal use.
Could FMT become a widely accepted medical treatment in the future?
Some believe FMT could revolutionize medicine, with ongoing research exploring its potential for treating conditions like Crohn's disease and autism. However, widespread acceptance would require rigorous testing, regulation, and standardized procedures, not the current DIY methods.
How much does DIY FMT cost?
The average cost for DIY FMT through platforms like Human Microbes is around $1,000 per order, split evenly between the donor and the platform operator. Recipients can choose between oral capsules or enemas for administration.
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