Dietary iron as a risk factor for myocardial infarction. Public health considerations for Nova Scotia.

BACKGROUND Epidemiological and experimental studies have suggested that high levels of dietary iron and hemeiron can lead to myocardial injury. Lean meat, a primary source of iron and hemeiron, is promoted because it is lower in fat and cholesterol. Does lean meat put us at risk for myocardial infarction, and should we reconsider its promotion? METHODS We analyzed the importance of dietary iron and hemeiron as a risk for myocardial infarction among 2,198 Nova Scotians who participated in a nutrition survey and who were followed for eight years, using logistic regression. RESULTS Acute myocardial infarction incidents occurred in 94 (4.3%) participants. We found no increased risk for myocardial infarction associated with high intake of iron and hemeiron. CONCLUSIONS Based on Nova Scotian data showing no increased risk for myocardial infarction with high intake of iron and hemeiron, there is no need for immediate reconsideration of promotion of lean meat.