New carcinogenic infectious pathogen called BMMF found in cow's milk and beef, which may explain why red meat increases colon cancer risk

[Hip]

German researchers have discovered a new type of infectious agent in dairy and meat products produced from European cattle that increases the risk for colon and breast cancer.

This new type of infectious pathogen is called bovine meat and milk factors (BMMF), and is classed as a plasmidome (which is similar to a plasmid — a circular strand of DNA).

Regions such as North America, Argentina, Europe and Australia, where large quantities of beef and dairy products from European cattle are consumed, have a high risk for colon and breast cancer.

However, a low incidence for both cancers has been recorded in Mongolia, Bolivia and India, countries that breed and consume mainly Asian zebus (in the case of Mongolia zebu half-breeds, but also yaks).

At the same time, some Indian states that used to have extremely low breast cancer rates are now experiencing higher levels of breast cancer, potentially linked to the introduction and consumption of European dairy cow products.

Data from Japan and Korea reveal a dramatic increase in the previously extremely low levels of colorectal cancer after enhanced meat products were made from European beef imports.

BMMF infections most likely occur in early infancy in children that are being fed dairy products after they have been weaned and at a time when the child’s immune system is not yet mature enough to fight off pathogens.

The researchers hypothesize further that these children will develop an immunological tolerance to BMMFs that could later favour the development of certain cancers. According to the researchers’ hypothesis, the pathogens themselves induce chronic inflammation, which can trigger the onset of cancer in colon and breast tissue.

Does this mean we need to refrain from consuming milk and beef in order to reduce our risk of developing cancer?

As the blood of adults has been shown to contain BMMF antibodies, refraining from consuming milk and beef during adulthood would have little effect.

Source: New pathogens in beef and cow's milk contributing to the risk of cancer

 

[bombsh3ll]

Interesting. Seems like a once off exposure like HPV and cervical cancer, rather than a dose dependent relationship?

B x

 

[Hip]

Seems like a once off exposure like HPV and cervical cancer, rather than a dose dependent relationship?

Yes, that's what the study authors are saying. Though this research is in its infancy, so I guess it will take more investigation until we understand the risks in more depth.