Microbirth

The Origins of the Human Microbiome

Winner of Grand Prix award at the 2014 Life Sciences Film festival.

Microbirth is a 60 minute cutting-edge science documentary offering an overview of the origins of the human microbiome and its significance for lifelong health.

Narrated by voice-over, illustrated by animation and live-action visuals, and featuring interviews with twelve professors from leading academic institutions including Cornell University, New York University and Imperial College London, Microbirth delves into cutting edge science regarding the origins of the human microbiome, the bacterial ecosystem that makes up 90% of cells in our bodies.

Microbirth investigates the microscopic events happening during childbirth and how modern birth practices could be interfering with the seeding of the baby's microbiome and possibly even connected to epigenetic effects with consequences for lifelong health.

In particular, the film reveals a link between mode of birth and a significantly increased risk of children developing asthma, type 1 diabetes, celiac disease and obesity. These non-communicable diseases are all linked to the immune system.

The film points out this is a serious global health concern especially in the light of predictions from the Harvard School of Public Health and the World Economic Forum that the rising tide of non-communicable disease globally could bankrupt healthcare systems by the year 2030.

The science behind Microbirth is well represented at major research and clinical conferences including the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI).