Bad COP(D)
Scientists from Columbia University have found that people who eat lots of cured meats such bacon, ham and hot dogs, are more likely to suffer from the serious lung condition chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The researchers looked at 7,352 people and found that those who ate the most cured meats had the worse lung function. Cured meats contain high levels of compounds called nitrites, which act as preservatives and colour fixatives. Nitrites give rise to reactive nitrogen species; molecules that may cause damage to the lungs. COPD includes the inflammatory lung conditions chronic bronchitis and emphysema and is responsible for over 30,000 deaths in the UK every year. Although smoking remains the main cause of COPD this research shows that frequent cured meat consumption is associated with an increased risk for COPD.
Jiang, R., Paik, D.C., Hankinson, J.L. and Barr, R.G. 2007. Cured meat consumption, lung function, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among United States adults. American Journal of Respiratory Critical Care Medicine. 175 (8) 798-804.
About the author
Dr. Justine Butler
Justine joined Viva! in 2005 after graduating from Bristol University with a PhD in molecular biology. After working as a campaigner, then researcher and writer, she is now Viva!’s head of research and her work focuses on animals, the environment and health. Justine’s scientific training helps her research and write both in-depth scientific reports, such as White Lies and the Meat Report, as well as easy-to-read factsheets and myth-busting articles for consumer magazines and updates on the latest research. Justine also recently wrote the Vegan for the Planet guide for Viva!’s Vegan Now campaign.
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