The Surprising Role of Contaminated Meat in the Rise of UTIs

The Rise of UTIs and the Surprising Role of Contaminated Meat


Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are becoming increasingly common—and more dangerous. Between 1990 and 2019, the overall burden of disease from UTIs rose by over 68%, and the bacteria responsible are becoming resistant to commonly used antibiotics. While many view UTIs as a painful inconvenience, they can be life-threatening for elderly patients or those with other health conditions. In such cases, timely access to effective antibiotics is critical. Failure to treat UTIs can lead to hundreds of thousands of deaths globally each year. Even when not fatal, UTIs place a significant strain on healthcare systems, with more than 400 million annual cases worldwide. In the U.S. alone, the economic toll of UTIs exceeds $2 billion annually, according to Dr. Michelle Van Kuiken, a urologist and urogynecologist at the University of California, San Francisco.

In an effort to ease this burden, scientists are investigating factors contributing to the rise in UTIs.

meat contaminated with *Escherichia coli* (E. coli) bacteria.

UTIs can affect any part of the urinary system, from the bladder to the kidneys and bloodstream. However, they most often occur in the bladder, presenting symptoms like frequent urination, a burning sensation, and urgency to urinate. Other signs include cramping, fever, foul-smelling urine, and blood in the urine, says Dr. Craig Comiter, a urologist at Stanford University. UTIs occur when bacteria, often introduced during sexual activity or poor hygiene, enter the urethra. In the U.S., they are the most common infection treated outside hospitals, affecting 50-60% of women during their lifetimes. Women are particularly susceptible because of the shorter distance between the urethra and the anus, a common source of bacteria. The groups most at risk include sexually active women, elderly individuals, and immunocompromised men and women. Though bladder infections are typically not life-threatening, they can lead to serious complications if left untreated. These complications may include sepsis, kidney damage, or even kidney failure. "A very small percentage of these cases can even be life-threatening," warns Dr. Jacob Lazarus, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School.

 # Why Are UTIs Increasing? 

Several factors are contributing to the rise in UTI cases. One is the growing global population. "As the population increases, we expect more UTIs," says Lazarus. Conditions like kidney stones and type 2 diabetes, both of which increase UTI risk, are also becoming more common, as is sexual activity. Another reason for the increase is the aging population. "UTIs are more common in seniors, and their prevalence is increasing as the population ages," explains Comiter. Of particular concern is the rise of antibiotic-resistant UTIs. According to microbiologist Cindy Liu, chief medical officer at George Washington University’s Antibiotic Resistance Action Center, the overuse of antibiotics has led to fewer treatment options for UTIs, increasing the risk of serious infections.

 thy farm animals often receive antibiotics to prevent disease, a practice that promotes resistance to the drugs used to treat infections in humans. Comiter points to the overuse of antibiotics in animal farming as a significant factor in the rise of antibiotic-resistant UTIs. "Eating meat heavily treated with antibiotics may increase the likelihood of colonization with a multi-drug-resistant organism," adds Van Kuiken. Although consuming meat does not directly cause UTIs, bacteria from contaminated meat can colonize the gut and travel to the urinary tract, particularly in women. This can occur when bacteria pass through the digestive system and are excreted near the urethra. Recent studies suggest this is more common than previously thought. In 2023, researchers estimated that contaminated meat causes nearly half a million UTIs annually in the U.S., a small but concerning fraction of the more than eight million UTI-related healthcare visits each year. Liu notes that between 30-70% of retail meat products are contaminated with E. coli. Although cooking typically kills harmful bacteria, cross-contamination during food preparation can introduce E. coli into other foods or surfaces. "Unless you are extremely careful, you contaminate your sink, kitchen surfaces, and raw foods when handling contaminated meat," warns Liu. 

# 

UTIs starts with good hygiene. Proper handling of meat is essential, particularly chicken, turkey, and pork, which are more commonly associated with E. coli infections. Safe food practices include frequent handwashing, sanitizing food preparation areas, and cooking meat to a safe temperature. Choosing antibiotic-free meats, such as those labeled "USDA Organic" or "No Antibiotics Ever," can also help reduce the risk of drug-resistant infections. Other preventive measures include drinking plenty of water, wiping from front to back, and urinating after sexual activity. If symptoms worsen or if you experience fever or changes in mental status, seek medical attention. "A serious infection may require hospitalization and a longer course of treatment," says Comiter. With early diagnosis and proper care, many of the worst outcomes of UTIs can be avoided. "UTIs are quite treatable if diagnosed early," Lazarus reassures.