Final answer:
True, Escherichia coli is a common cause of urinary tract infections, especially in women, due to fecal contamination. Prevention through good hygiene is important, as certain strains of E. coli can become pathogenic and lead to severe health complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Escherichia coli, commonly known as E. coli, is indeed associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs). As the most common cause of UTIs, especially in women, E. coli often originates from fecal matter entering the urinary tract, leading to infections such as cystitis and urethritis. Good hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of contracting UTIs from E. coli. In men, factors like an enlarged prostate or kidney stones can contribute to an increased risk of UTIs. When considering the gram-negative bacteria that cause bladder infections, E. coli is frequently identified due to its ability to convert nitrate to nitrite, which is a factor detectable by urine tests.
Some strains of E. coli are not only part of our normal gut flora but can, under certain conditions, become pathogenic. These strains might possess virulence factors such as fimbriae that promote colonization, or produce toxins that can cause serious diseases including diarrheal illnesses and more severe complications. It should be noted that not all E. coli strains are harmful, but the pathogenic ones pose significant health risks when they spread beyond the gastrointestinal tract, as they can through contamination or medical procedures such as surgery.