Every year in the UK, approximately 2.4 million individuals suffer from food poisoning, experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and severe stomach cramps. While most recover within a few days, there can be lasting health implications. Recent research indicates that exposure to E. coli, a common cause of food-borne illnesses, may be associated with various diseases including bowel cancer, dementia, Parkinson's, heart disease, and depression.

One specific type of E. coli, E. coli 0157, releases a toxin called Shiga which can lead to severe complications such as haemolytic uremic syndrome, resulting in kidney failure. In 2022, there were 2,063 confirmed cases of Shiga-related E. coli infections in England. A deadly outbreak last year in England linked to contaminated salad leaves in sandwiches resulted in one fatality and over 100 hospitalizations.

While most E. coli strains are destroyed by stomach acid, some like 0157 can bypass the stomach lining and enter the bloodstream, potentially causing serious long-term conditions. Research suggests that E. coli infections in childhood could contribute to the rising cases of bowel cancer among younger individuals.

Studies have also found a potential link between E. coli infections and dementia. Adults who had an E. coli 0157 infection were five times more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's later in life. Additionally, E. coli has been associated with heart disease and even conditions like endometriosis.

Researchers are investigating the impact of E. coli on various health issues including Parkinson's disease, endometriosis, and heart problems. The rise in E. coli infections is a concerning trend globally, with rates increasing by approximately 6% annually.