Engaging with the IBD Community in the Faroe Islands: miGut-Health Symposium Highlights the Importance of Patient-Centred Research

As part of the miGut-Health project, RISE coordinated the organisation of the miGut-Health Symposium: Science Talks to the IBD Community held at the University of the Faroe Islands on 16 June 2025.

The Faroe Islands, which have the highest incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) globally, provided a particularly meaningful setting for this exchange. Organised in close collaboration with the project coordinators, local institutions, and the Faroese IBD patient organisation, the symposium aimed to bring the latest IBD research closer to people living with IBD, healthcare professionals, local researchers and the wider community. The strong turnout from local patients and healthcare professionals underscored the value of these interactions and the importance of nurturing trust and collaboration.

At RISE, we put emphasis on fostering patient engagement and ensuring that advancements in science reach a wider audience: "Events like this are vital in bridging the gap between science and society," says Antonija Zrno Ćulap, miGut-Health project manager. "By creating space for open dialogue, they empower patients, raise awareness, and ensure that research responds to real-world needs."

Antonija also delivered a talk about communication and dissemination in the project, presenting efforts of EURICE, RISE and other partners to build and engage the miGut-Health IBD community and highlighting the project's work to bring research closer to people living with IBD. Overall, the project seeks to develop personalised strategies for early disease prediction, prevention, and gut health improvement through close collaboration with those most affected.

Find out more about miGut-Health and the event here.