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Endometriosis risk is doubled in women who regularly eat red meat, new study reveals

Endometriosis
Women who consume red meat twice or more a week are at greater risk of endometriosis [Photo: Getty]

Women who eat red meat twice or more a week are at an increased risk of endometriosis, according to new findings.

A 22-year-long study conducted by researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre, revealed that women who regularly consume red meat are 56 percent more likely to develop the condition.

The research team analysed 81,908 pre-menopausal women across the United States between 1991 and 2013. Every four years, participants were asked to complete a dietary questionnaire.

According to the study, regular consumption of red meat may increase the levels of oestrogen in the body which in turn, may trigger endometriosis.

Endometriosis
Endometriosis affects one in 10 women across the UK [Photo: Getty]

Unlike red meat, seafood and poultry did not appear to impact the risk of developing the condition.

According to the NHS, endometriosis is a long-term condition where the tissue that lines the womb is found elsewhere in the body. For instance, it can be discovered in the ovaries or fallopian tubes.

Every month when menstruation occurs, the cells react in the same way as those in the womb and build up before breaking down. This can result in symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy periods, infertility and pain during or after sex.

The cause of the condition – which affects one in 10 women in the UK – is not yet fully understood and there is sadly not a cure available.

For further information on endometriosis and the treatments available, please visit the NHS website.

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