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Supriya Ramesh

Eating More Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to 41% Higher Lung Cancer Risk, Study

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Ice cream, breakfast cereal, and that quick-fix instant noodle packet might save a lot of your time and satisfy your taste buds. But a growing body of research suggests they may be doing more harm than just expanding your waistline. A new study has drawn a strong link between eating ultra-processed foods (<span>UPFs</span>) and a significantly higher risk of developing <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/lung-cancer">lung cancer</a></span>. 

Here is what you need to know about the findings and whether your daily diet might be putting your lungs at risk.

The study, led by Chinese researchers and published in the medical journal Thorax, tracked the health and food habits of over 100,000 American adults, with an average age of 63, for around 12 years. Using detailed dietary questionnaires, researchers zoomed in on the intake of UPFs, which include all your guilty pleasures: cakes, cookies, soft drinks, frozen pizzas, hot dogs, margarine, sugary cereals, and yes, even your beloved salty snacks.

Participants consumed anywhere between half a serving to six servings of these foods daily, with the average landing at nearly three servings a day. Lunch meats and soft drinks came out on top as the most commonly consumed items.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/can-potatoes-help-control-obesity-researchers-say-yes-know-why-how-and-more-article-152371290" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Can Potatoes Help Control Obesity? Researchers Say Yes; Know Why, How and More</a>

By the end of the study, 1,706 participants had developed lung cancer. When researchers compared diets, a disturbing pattern emerged: those who ate the most UPFs had a 41 per cent greater chance of developing lung cancer compared to those who ate the least.

<h2>It is Not Just About <span rel="noindex">Smoking</span></h2>

Naturally, the study controlled for smoking status, an obvious and major risk factor for lung cancer. But the researchers admit they could not account for smoking intensity, a variable that could skew results. Still, the pattern remained strong even when separating out different lung cancer types, including both small cell and non-small cell variants.

Reports say that a quarter of lung cancer cases occur in non-smokers, and this highlights the need to explore other possible triggers, including diet.

However, the study is not airtight. Dietary habits change a lot over 12 years, and participants only logged their UPF intake at the start. 

<h2>What is the Study Actually Saying?</h2>

The study’s authors are not claiming that UPFs cause lung cancer. But the association is strong enough to spark concern. They say global efforts to cut back on ultra-processed foods could be an effective way to reduce lung cancer cases, especially among non-smokers.

They are not wrong. While the direct line between a cupcake and a cancer cell has not been proven, UPFs are already known to contribute to <span>obesity</span>, <span>heart disease</span>, <span>type 2 diabetes</span>, and even depression. Adding lung cancer to the list, even with some scientific caveats, raises the stakes for rethinking what is on your plate.

<h2><span rel="noindex">Vaping</span> May Be Rising, But Smoking Is Falling</h2>

On a related note, separate research from the <span>University of Michigan</span> offers a silver lining: teenage smoking is on the decline. Tracking data on 16- and 17-year-olds in Britain from 1974, 1986, and 2018, the study showed a drop from 33 per cent to 12 per cent in teen smoking. But in 2018, 11 per cent of teens reported using e-cigarettes instead.

That is still a win in the long-term fight against lung cancer, but it also makes lifestyle-related risks like diet more significant. If fewer people are smoking, then other contributors to lung cancer, like <span>poor nutrition</span>, could become even more important to understand.

The science is not settled, and researchers are being cautious. Still, the message is clear: even if you have never lit a cigarette in your life, what you eat might be silently setting off alarms in your body.

While more studies are needed to confirm causation, this new research adds to a growing chorus warning us about the dangers of overly processed meals. You do not need to quit cake completely, but maybe it is time to take care of your lungs more by making better food choices. 

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Ice cream, breakfast cereal, and that quick-fix instant noodle packet might save a lot of your time and satisfy your taste buds. But a growing body of research suggests they may be doing more harm than just expanding your waistline. A new study has drawn a strong link between eating ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer. Here is what you need to know about the findings and whether your daily diet might be putting your lungs at risk.The study, led by Chinese researchers and published in the medical journal Thorax, tracked the health and food habits of over 100,000 American adults, with an average age of 63, for around 12 years. Using detailed dietary questionnaires, researchers zoomed in on the intake of UPFs, which include all your guilty pleasures: cakes, cookies, soft drinks, frozen pizzas, hot dogs, margarine, sugary cereals, and yes, even your beloved salty snacks.Participants consumed anywhere between half a serving to six servings of these foods daily, with the average landing at nearly three servings a day. Lunch meats and soft drinks came out on top as the most commonly consumed items.Also Read: Can Potatoes Help Control Obesity? Researchers Say Yes; Know Why, How and MoreBy the end of the study, 1,706 participants had developed lung cancer. When researchers compared diets, a disturbing pattern emerged: those who ate the most UPFs had a 41 per cent greater chance of developing lung cancer compared to those who ate the least.It is Not Just About SmokingNaturally, the study controlled for smoking status, an obvious and major risk factor for lung cancer. But the researchers admit they could not account for smoking intensity, a variable that could skew results. Still, the pattern remained strong even when separating out different lung cancer types, including both small cell and non-small cell variants.Reports say that a quarter of lung cancer cases occur in non-smokers, and this highlights the need to explore other possible triggers, including diet.However, the study is not airtight. Dietary habits change a lot over 12 years, and participants only logged their UPF intake at the start. What is the Study Actually Saying?The study’s authors are not claiming that UPFs cause lung cancer. But the association is strong enough to spark concern. They say global efforts to cut back on ultra-processed foods could be an effective way to reduce lung cancer cases, especially among non-smokers.They are not wrong. While the direct line between a cupcake and a cancer cell has not been proven, UPFs are already known to contribute to obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even depression. Adding lung cancer to the list, even with some scientific caveats, raises the stakes for rethinking what is on your plate.Vaping May Be Rising, But Smoking Is FallingOn a related note, separate research from the University of Michigan offers a silver lining: teenage smoking is on the decline. Tracking data on 16- and 17-year-olds in Britain from 1974, 1986, and 2018, the study showed a drop from 33 per cent to 12 per cent in teen smoking. But in 2018, 11 per cent of teens reported using e-cigarettes instead.That is still a win in the long-term fight against lung cancer, but it also makes lifestyle-related risks like diet more significant. If fewer people are smoking, then other contributors to lung cancer, like poor nutrition, could become even more important to understand.Should You Panic or Not? The science is not settled, and researchers are being cautious. Still, the message is clear: even if you have never lit a cigarette in your life, what you eat might be silently setting off alarms in your body.While more studies are needed to confirm causation, this new research adds to a growing chorus warning us about the dangers of overly processed meals. You do not need to quit cake completely, but maybe it is time to take care of your lungs more by making better food choices. 

eating more ultra-processed foods linked to 41% higher lung cancer risk, study

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<span>James Van Der Beek</span> says his life will never be the same again. Diagnosed with stage 3 <span>colorectal cancer</span> in August 2023, the Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues actor is now facing the kind of life transformation that goes far beyond Hollywood scripts.

“I’m just on the journey,” the 48-year-old told Today.com in a candid interview. “It's a process. It'll probably be a process for the rest of my life."

For Van Der Beek, living with <span>cancer</span> isn’t just about treatment. It’s become a full-time job, one that’s required a complete overhaul of his lifestyle. From modifying his diet to rethinking how he exercises and rests, the actor has embraced a slower, more intentional way of living.

“The most important thing,” Van Der Beek shared, “is to find the beauty of just taking things a little bit more slowly and prioritizing rest, and really allowing that to be the job.”

His perspective is reflective of someone who has been forced to confront mortality. In an emotional Instagram post in March, the actor said, “I had to come nose to nose with death.”

During treatment, he had to step back from his role as a father and husband. “I could no longer be a father who could pick up his kids and put them to bed... I could not be a provider because I wasn't working."

Yet in the quiet moments of stillness, he found something unexpected: spiritual clarity. “I meditated and the answer came through. I am worthy of God's love, simply because I exist. And if I'm worthy of God's love, shouldn't I also be worthy of my own?”

<h4>Encouraging Others to Get Screened</h4>

Van Der Beek, who was screened at age 46, is now encouraging others to get checked earlier. He admitted he was unaware that the recommended age for colorectal cancer screenings had been lowered to 45.

“I thought I was way ahead of the game,” he said. “I ate as well as I could. I was healthy. I was in amazing cardiovascular shape. There was no reason in my mind that I should have gotten a positive diagnosis.”

His message is clear: even those who feel and look healthy aren’t immune, and early detection can be life-saving.

Despite everything, Van Der Beek has been finding joy and even normalcy through work. He recently filmed for the upcoming Legally Blonde prequel series Elle, calling the experience a much-needed escape.

"The greatest thing about work is cancer doesn't exist between action and cut," he said. “It was fun to drop in and just have a blast… It’s such a great cast, a great production, and everybody out there is really talented.”

<h4>A Healing Phase and a Family Anchor</h4>

In March, he gave Extra an update from his Texas ranch, where he lives with his wife Kimberly and their six children, Olivia (14), Joshua (13), Annabel (11), Emilia (9), Gwendolyn (7), and Jeremiah (3). Van Der Beek said he’s now in a “healing portal,” adding, “I feel like I can see the finish line.”

Earlier that month, he made his debut as the Griffin on The Masked Singer, a role that offered unexpected emotional catharsis. “To be able to put on the mask and connect with an audience without [my diagnosis] being a part of the equation was actually a really beautiful thing,” he said.

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James Van Der Beek says his life will never be the same again. Diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in August 2023, the Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues actor is now facing the kind of life transformation that goes far beyond Hollywood scripts.“I’m just on the journey,” the 48-year-old told Today.com in a candid interview. “It's a process. It'll probably be a process for the rest of my life."For Van Der Beek, living with cancer isn’t just about treatment. It’s become a full-time job, one that’s required a complete overhaul of his lifestyle. From modifying his diet to rethinking how he exercises and rests, the actor has embraced a slower, more intentional way of living.Finding Peace in Slowing Down“The most important thing,” Van Der Beek shared, “is to find the beauty of just taking things a little bit more slowly and prioritizing rest, and really allowing that to be the job.”His perspective is reflective of someone who has been forced to confront mortality. In an emotional Instagram post in March, the actor said, “I had to come nose to nose with death.”          View this post on Instagram            A post shared by James Van Der Beek (@vanderjames)]]> During treatment, he had to step back from his role as a father and husband. “I could no longer be a father who could pick up his kids and put them to bed... I could not be a provider because I wasn't working."Yet in the quiet moments of stillness, he found something unexpected: spiritual clarity. “I meditated and the answer came through. I am worthy of God's love, simply because I exist. And if I'm worthy of God's love, shouldn't I also be worthy of my own?”Encouraging Others to Get ScreenedVan Der Beek, who was screened at age 46, is now encouraging others to get checked earlier. He admitted he was unaware that the recommended age for colorectal cancer screenings had been lowered to 45.“I thought I was way ahead of the game,” he said. “I ate as well as I could. I was healthy. I was in amazing cardiovascular shape. There was no reason in my mind that I should have gotten a positive diagnosis.”His message is clear: even those who feel and look healthy aren’t immune, and early detection can be life-saving.Back on Set and Grateful for ItDespite everything, Van Der Beek has been finding joy and even normalcy through work. He recently filmed for the upcoming Legally Blonde prequel series Elle, calling the experience a much-needed escape."The greatest thing about work is cancer doesn't exist between action and cut," he said. “It was fun to drop in and just have a blast… It’s such a great cast, a great production, and everybody out there is really talented.”A Healing Phase and a Family AnchorIn March, he gave Extra an update from his Texas ranch, where he lives with his wife Kimberly and their six children, Olivia (14), Joshua (13), Annabel (11), Emilia (9), Gwendolyn (7), and Jeremiah (3). Van Der Beek said he’s now in a “healing portal,” adding, “I feel like I can see the finish line.”Earlier that month, he made his debut as the Griffin on The Masked Singer, a role that offered unexpected emotional catharsis. “To be able to put on the mask and connect with an audience without [my diagnosis] being a part of the equation was actually a really beautiful thing,” he said.

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Last month, 17 top public health experts were abruptly removed from the U.S. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the group historically responsible for setting national vaccine guidelines. The move came directly from U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. <span>Kennedy</span> Jr., who <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/rfk-jr-removes-entire-cdc-vaccine-advisory-committee-article-151823769" data-type="tilCustomLink">dismissed </a>the entire panel, accusing them of being too closely tied to vaccine manufacturers and too quick to approve vaccines without scrutiny.

In their place, Kennedy <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/kennedy-names-new-vaccine-advisers-among-whom-are-anti-vaxxers-and-those-who-spread-misinformation-after-ousting-the-entire-panel-article-151879801" data-type="tilCustomLink">appointed </a>several individuals known for their skepticism toward vaccines, a controversial decision that has sparked concern among the medical community.

<strong>READ MORE ON: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/rfk-jr-removes-entire-cdc-vaccine-advisory-committee-article-151823769" data-type="tilCustomLink">RFK Jr. Removes Entire CDC Vaccine Advisory Committee</a></strong>

<strong><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/kennedy-names-new-vaccine-advisers-among-whom-are-anti-vaxxers-and-those-who-spread-misinformation-after-ousting-the-entire-panel-article-151879801" data-type="tilCustomLink">Kennedy Names New Vaccine Advisers Among Whom Are Anti-Vaxxers And Those Who Spread Misinformation</a></strong>

<h4>“A Travesty” of a First Meeting</h4>

In a strongly worded commentary published in the <em>N</em><em>ew England Journal of Medicine</em> this week, the ousted experts criticized what they say is a dangerous shift in how vaccine policy is being handled. According to the former committee members, the new ACIP lacks <strong>rigorous scientific </strong>review and open discussion.

They pointed to the new committee’s first meeting in June as a troubling example. 

The session included a presentation from a known anti-vaccine advocate warning against thimerosal, a preservative used in some flu vaccines, despite longstanding studies showing no link between thimerosal and neurodevelopmental disorders. Strikingly, the new panel did not hear from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) scientists who could have presented data debunking the concerns.

Despite acknowledging the lack of evidence against <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/rfk-jr-orders-thimerosal-removed-from-all-us-flu-shots-article-152334591" data-type="tilCustomLink">thimerosal</a>, the committee still voted to recommend removing it from vaccines.

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/rfk-jr-orders-thimerosal-removed-from-all-us-flu-shots-article-152334591" data-type="tilCustomLink">RFK Jr. Orders Thimerosal Removed From All US Flu Shots</a></strong>

“That meeting was a <strong>travesty</strong>, honestly,” said Dr. Yvonne Maldonado, a pediatric infectious disease expert from Stanford University and a former ACIP member, as reported by AP.

This isn’t the first time Kennedy’s decisions have raised eyebrows. 

In May, he made headlines for halting the federal recommendation of COVID-19 vaccines for healthy children and pregnant women. The fired experts addressed this in an earlier essay published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, calling Kennedy’s choices “destabilizing.”

Now, their latest commentary goes further, warning that the current path could lead to long-term damage to public health. They argue that Kennedy and his newly selected panel are dismantling a once-trusted system that upheld science-based, unbiased vaccine guidance for decades.

Recognizing the challenge of restoring the former ACIP structure, the ousted experts proposed new ideas for preserving trustworthy vaccine policy. They suggest forming an alternative committee, potentially independent from the federal government, to provide reliable recommendations.

“No viable pathway exists to fully replace the prior trusted and unbiased ACIP structure and process,” they wrote. “Instead, the alternatives must focus on limiting the damage to vaccination policy in the United States.”

Other suggestions included encouraging leading professional health organizations to collaborate on unified recommendations, or establishing an external group to audit ACIP’s guidance. However, the experts admitted that such efforts face major hurdles, especially regarding access to government-held data.

<strong>YOU MAY LIKE TO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/rfk-hires-autism-skeptic-to-look-into-cdc-autism-data-article-151899045" data-type="tilCustomLink">RFK Hires Autism Skeptic To Look Into CDC Autism Data</a></strong>

<h4>Insurance Coverage and Access at Risk</h4>One major concern with shifting vaccine policy outside federal guidance is how insurance providers will respond. Would insurers cover vaccines recommended by independent groups but not by the ACIP?

Noel Brewer, a former committee member from the University of North Carolina, warned that insurers might selectively cover vaccines based on short-term cost savings. For example, the flu shot, which helps avoid immediate healthcare expenses, might be approved, while longer-term preventive vaccines, like the HPV shot, could be left out.

“That’s the danger,” Brewer said. “Vaccines that prevent future cancers might not make the cut.”

Kennedy’s actions have not gone unnoticed in Congress. During a recent House hearing, Democratic lawmakers grilled him about his rapid and sweeping changes to national vaccine policy. So far, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has not responded to media inquiries regarding the criticism or the experts’ proposed solutions.

<strong>READ MORE: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/rfk-jr-s-vaccine-panel-votes-against-flu-shot-preservative-all-about-the-controversial-thimerosal-ingredient-article-152167755" data-type="tilCustomLink">RFK Jr.’s Vaccine Panel Votes Against Flu Shot Preservative: All About The Controversial Thimerosal Ingredient</a></strong>

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Last month, 17 top public health experts were abruptly removed from the U.S. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the group historically responsible for setting national vaccine guidelines. The move came directly from U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who dismissed the entire panel, accusing them of being too closely tied to vaccine manufacturers and too quick to approve vaccines without scrutiny.In their place, Kennedy appointed several individuals known for their skepticism toward vaccines, a controversial decision that has sparked concern among the medical community.READ MORE ON: RFK Jr. Removes Entire CDC Vaccine Advisory CommitteeKennedy Names New Vaccine Advisers Among Whom Are Anti-Vaxxers And Those Who Spread Misinformation“A Travesty” of a First MeetingIn a strongly worded commentary published in the New England Journal of Medicine this week, the ousted experts criticized what they say is a dangerous shift in how vaccine policy is being handled. According to the former committee members, the new ACIP lacks rigorous scientific review and open discussion.They pointed to the new committee’s first meeting in June as a troubling example. The session included a presentation from a known anti-vaccine advocate warning against thimerosal, a preservative used in some flu vaccines, despite longstanding studies showing no link between thimerosal and neurodevelopmental disorders. Strikingly, the new panel did not hear from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) scientists who could have presented data debunking the concerns.Despite acknowledging the lack of evidence against thimerosal, the committee still voted to recommend removing it from vaccines.ALSO READ: RFK Jr. Orders Thimerosal Removed From All US Flu Shots“That meeting was a travesty, honestly,” said Dr. Yvonne Maldonado, a pediatric infectious disease expert from Stanford University and a former ACIP member, as reported by AP.A Pattern of DestabilizationThis isn’t the first time Kennedy’s decisions have raised eyebrows. In May, he made headlines for halting the federal recommendation of COVID-19 vaccines for healthy children and pregnant women. The fired experts addressed this in an earlier essay published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, calling Kennedy’s choices “destabilizing.”Now, their latest commentary goes further, warning that the current path could lead to long-term damage to public health. They argue that Kennedy and his newly selected panel are dismantling a once-trusted system that upheld science-based, unbiased vaccine guidance for decades.Proposing a Way ForwardRecognizing the challenge of restoring the former ACIP structure, the ousted experts proposed new ideas for preserving trustworthy vaccine policy. They suggest forming an alternative committee, potentially independent from the federal government, to provide reliable recommendations.“No viable pathway exists to fully replace the prior trusted and unbiased ACIP structure and process,” they wrote. “Instead, the alternatives must focus on limiting the damage to vaccination policy in the United States.”Other suggestions included encouraging leading professional health organizations to collaborate on unified recommendations, or establishing an external group to audit ACIP’s guidance. However, the experts admitted that such efforts face major hurdles, especially regarding access to government-held data.YOU MAY LIKE TO READ: RFK Hires Autism Skeptic To Look Into CDC Autism DataInsurance Coverage and Access at RiskOne major concern with shifting vaccine policy outside federal guidance is how insurance providers will respond. Would insurers cover vaccines recommended by independent groups but not by the ACIP?Noel Brewer, a former committee member from the University of North Carolina, warned that insurers might selectively cover vaccines based on short-term cost savings. For example, the flu shot, which helps avoid immediate healthcare expenses, might be approved, while longer-term preventive vaccines, like the HPV shot, could be left out.“That’s the danger,” Brewer said. “Vaccines that prevent future cancers might not make the cut.”A Growing ControversyKennedy’s actions have not gone unnoticed in Congress. During a recent House hearing, Democratic lawmakers grilled him about his rapid and sweeping changes to national vaccine policy. So far, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has not responded to media inquiries regarding the criticism or the experts’ proposed solutions.READ MORE: RFK Jr.’s Vaccine Panel Votes Against Flu Shot Preservative: All About The Controversial Thimerosal Ingredient

rfk jr. is leaving behind 'rigorous science', say ousted vaccine panel members

Sharp Rise in STEC Infections Across England: Public Urged to Step Up Hygiene Measures

Rabies Can Kill Without a Bite: Why Even a Lick Deserves Urgent Action

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If your stomach has been feeling off lately, you are not alone, and it may not just be last night’s dodgy takeaway to blame. The UK Health Security Agency (<span>UKHSA</span>) has flagged a worrisome 26 per cent jump in Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (<span>STEC</span>) infections across England in 2024. This is not your average upset tummy. STEC is a notorious bacterial bug that can pack quite a punch and even turn deadly in rare cases.

Let us break down what is going on inside your gut and why everyone from toddlers to travellers is being warned to tread carefully.

<h2>What is STEC?</h2>STEC is a group of Escherichia coli bacteria that produces Shiga toxins, which are notorious for triggering <span>gastroenteritis</span>, meaning <span>diarrhoea</span>, stomach cramps, vomiting and dehydration. While many cases clear up without a fuss, some can spiral into a severe, potentially fatal condition called <span>haemolytic uraemic syndrome</span> (HUS), which mostly targets the kidneys.

And just how bad is the situation? In 2024, England clocked 2,544 confirmed cases, up from 2,018 in 2023. Of these, 564 were the O157 variety, the usual suspect in previous years, and 1,980 were of other non-O157 strains, which are fast becoming the new troublemakers.

<h2>Why Toddlers Are Most at Risk</h2>Kids aged one to four seem to be prime targets, with 84 O157 and 273 non-O157 cases reported in this age group alone. Why? Their tiny immune systems are still learning the ropes, their <span>hygiene</span> habits are a work in progress, and they will touch anything. 

<h2>When Holidays Come With a Side of Bacteria</h2>If you are planning a sunny getaway, be warned. Travel-related cases of STEC saw a whopping 60 per cent leap this year. Whether it is due to changing travel patterns or better reporting, it is a reminder that good hygiene does not take a holiday. Washing hands thoroughly, avoiding questionable street food and keeping your water clean can go a long way when you are overseas.

<h2>How It Spreads</h2>STEC bacteria are quieter than you would expect. You can catch them from undercooked meat, contaminated fruit or veg, untreated water, or simply touching surfaces that carry the bug. They also jump from person to person, especially in households or nurseries where handwashing might be more ‘meh’ than meticulous. And animals can be carriers too. Visiting children’s farms without properly washing up afterwards? You could be in danger. 

<h2>2024’s Biggest Outbreak</h2>Of the five outbreaks that UKHSA tracked this year, the worst offender was salad leaves. One salad-linked outbreak caused 293 infections across the UK, hospitalised 126 people, led to 11 HUS cases, and tragically took two lives. Fresh produce like fruit and salad may seem harmless, but if they are not washed or stored properly, they can become a microbial minefield.

<h2>Deaths, Detection and a Worrying Trend</h2>Seven people died from STEC in 2024 – two from O157 and five from non-O157. The non-O157 group has seen a near tripling in cases since 2019. Why? More accurate testing methods like PCR have brought many cases to light that previously went undetected. So, the increase is not just because bacteria are getting braver; we are also getting better at spotting them.

<h2>What Can You Do?</h2>The best defence is good old-fashioned hygiene. Wash hands with soap and hot water, especially after playing outside, handling animals, or using the loo. Use bleach-based cleaners on surfaces and do not cook for others if you are sick or for 48 hours after symptoms ease. If there is blood in your stool or you are severely dehydrated, it is time to ring the GP.

Meanwhile, according to the reports, it is recommended that everyone follow the “4Cs” of food hygiene: chilling, cleaning, cooking, and avoiding cross-contamination. And if you are eating out, check hygiene ratings before you tuck in.

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toddler infections

Diarrhoea

If your stomach has been feeling off lately, you are not alone, and it may not just be last night’s dodgy takeaway to blame. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has flagged a worrisome 26 per cent jump in Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections across England in 2024. This is not your average upset tummy. STEC is a notorious bacterial bug that can pack quite a punch and even turn deadly in rare cases.Let us break down what is going on inside your gut and why everyone from toddlers to travellers is being warned to tread carefully.What is STEC?STEC is a group of Escherichia coli bacteria that produces Shiga toxins, which are notorious for triggering gastroenteritis, meaning diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting and dehydration. While many cases clear up without a fuss, some can spiral into a severe, potentially fatal condition called haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), which mostly targets the kidneys.And just how bad is the situation? In 2024, England clocked 2,544 confirmed cases, up from 2,018 in 2023. Of these, 564 were the O157 variety, the usual suspect in previous years, and 1,980 were of other non-O157 strains, which are fast becoming the new troublemakers.Why Toddlers Are Most at RiskKids aged one to four seem to be prime targets, with 84 O157 and 273 non-O157 cases reported in this age group alone. Why? Their tiny immune systems are still learning the ropes, their hygiene habits are a work in progress, and they will touch anything. When Holidays Come With a Side of BacteriaIf you are planning a sunny getaway, be warned. Travel-related cases of STEC saw a whopping 60 per cent leap this year. Whether it is due to changing travel patterns or better reporting, it is a reminder that good hygiene does not take a holiday. Washing hands thoroughly, avoiding questionable street food and keeping your water clean can go a long way when you are overseas.How It SpreadsSTEC bacteria are quieter than you would expect. You can catch them from undercooked meat, contaminated fruit or veg, untreated water, or simply touching surfaces that carry the bug. They also jump from person to person, especially in households or nurseries where handwashing might be more ‘meh’ than meticulous. And animals can be carriers too. Visiting children’s farms without properly washing up afterwards? You could be in danger. 2024’s Biggest OutbreakOf the five outbreaks that UKHSA tracked this year, the worst offender was salad leaves. One salad-linked outbreak caused 293 infections across the UK, hospitalised 126 people, led to 11 HUS cases, and tragically took two lives. Fresh produce like fruit and salad may seem harmless, but if they are not washed or stored properly, they can become a microbial minefield.Deaths, Detection and a Worrying TrendSeven people died from STEC in 2024 – two from O157 and five from non-O157. The non-O157 group has seen a near tripling in cases since 2019. Why? More accurate testing methods like PCR have brought many cases to light that previously went undetected. So, the increase is not just because bacteria are getting braver; we are also getting better at spotting them.What Can You Do?The best defence is good old-fashioned hygiene. Wash hands with soap and hot water, especially after playing outside, handling animals, or using the loo. Use bleach-based cleaners on surfaces and do not cook for others if you are sick or for 48 hours after symptoms ease. If there is blood in your stool or you are severely dehydrated, it is time to ring the GP.Meanwhile, according to the reports, it is recommended that everyone follow the “4Cs” of food hygiene: chilling, cleaning, cooking, and avoiding cross-contamination. And if you are eating out, check hygiene ratings before you tuck in.

sharp rise in stec infections across england: public urged to step up hygiene measures

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