A study conducted by researchers from George Washington University in the United States showed that nearly one in five urinary tract infections is caused by strains of E. coli bacteria that are transmitted to humans through contaminated meat.
To reach these results, the research team collected more than 5,700 samples of E. coli bacteria from two sources: samples from patients suffering from urinary tract infections and samples from retail meat and poultry stores in the same geographic areas. They then conducted advanced genetic analysis to determine the origin of each bacterial strain.
The analysis showed that about 18% of infections were attributed to bacterial strains of animal origin, with the most dangerous strains being most frequently found in chicken and turkey meat.
The study also highlighted an important social factor, as it revealed that residents of poor neighborhoods are more susceptible to this infection, up to 60% more than residents of wealthier neighborhoods. Researchers attributed this increase to limited access to fresh, high-quality food, in addition to differences in health conditions.
Scientists emphasized that preventing these types of infections requires a comprehensive approach, ranging from tightening health standards in meat processing plants to addressing social inequalities in nutrition.
The researchers offered practical advice to consumers to reduce the risk of infection, including: cooking meat thoroughly, preventing raw meat from coming into contact with cooked or ready-to-eat foods, and washing hands thoroughly after handling or preparing raw meat.
