Smart Salem launches AI-powered microbiome gut health testing in UAE

UAE residents and visitors can now get a new view of their gut microbiome thanks to new testing launched by government-accredited medical center Smart Salem. The fancy test uses the latest technology to detect hundreds of species present in the individual's gut and then make actionable, personalized recommendations to improve it.

How does it work?

Applying AI-powered metagenomic whole-genome shotgun sequencing (which detects all DNA present in the sample), Smart Salem's test provides a comprehensive insight into overall health including the potential of the genes in your gut to produce metabolites that influence health, both positively and negatively.

With up to 60 times greater sensitivity than standard tests, the in-depth analysis offers insights into digestive, heart, kidney, brain and immune health.

The test is priced at AED2,500 (around $680), with the in-depth testing taking four weeks, after which a comprehensive report is generated with information about microbial diversity, digestive potential, microbial metabolites and eukaryotic microorganisms — as well as specific nutritional recommendations to improve gut health. A one hour consultation with an expert clinical dietician, during which the report findings will be summarized, is also included.

The test is available at Smart Salem centers at Dubai Knowledge Park and Index Tower, DIFC.

Why does it matter?

A survey by Smart Salem, conducted in partnership with Dubai Health and Klea Holding (formerly Visiomed Group), found that while gut health is a prominent concern for people in the UAE — with 75% saying it's extremely important to them and almost two thirds (62%) suffering gut health symptoms on a weekly basis — only 2% have ever done a gut microbiome test.

The survey also found 8 out of 10 people think they are not doing enough, or are not sure if they are doing enough, to protect and enhance their gut health.

On the record

"The importance of gut health has been the subject of in-depth research over the last decade and we now know that a healthy gut microbiome is a key factor in our overall health. Launching this cutting-edge gut health analysis gives people in the UAE who suffer from gut health issues the opportunity to get more in-depth answers," said Smart Salem's CEO Amanda Gravitis.

"A healthy gut is crucial to your immune system, however until recently it was difficult to get an in-depth view of individual gut health to identify any microbial imbalance. With this advanced testing we are now able to help people protect and enhance their gut microbiome in a sustainable way, with significant impacts to their overall health and wellbeing, which is really exciting," added Smart Salem's Clinical Dietician Helen Conway.

The context

Smart Salem is the UAE's leading premium visa medical fitness testing center and medical center. It offers a range of health and wellness tests — from gut microbiome analysis to allergy tests — as well as health screening packages, including comprehensive blood tests, body composition analysis, physical examinations, and family medicine specialist consultations.