Human blood might contain microplastics, potentially posing a threat to one's health.
In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have detected microplastics in the blood of 22 healthy adults, raising concerns about potential health risks associated with these tiny plastic particles.
Until now, the focus on microplastics has primarily been on their impact on the marine environment. However, this new study, published in the prestigious journal Nature, sheds light on the possibility of microplastics entering the human body through various routes such as air, food, water, personal care products, dental polymers, and tattoo ink residues.
The researchers used a novel method, employing glass fiber filters and double-shot pyrolysis, to identify the microplastics in the blood samples. They found at least three different types of plastic in some samples, including poly(methyl methylacrylate) (PMMA), polypropylene (PP), polymerized styrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is commonly used in drinks bottles. In fact, PET was found in more than half of the participants' blood.
The presence of microplastics in the bloodstream could potentially lead to vascular obstruction, inflammation, and pro-coagulant effects, which may impair organ function including the brain, and could contribute to cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
Experimental studies, primarily in animal models, indicate that microplastics can clog tiny blood vessels, trigger immune cell obstructions, and lead to rare blood clots in the brain, potentially resulting in neurobehavioral abnormalities and increased risk of stroke or heart attack.
However, it is important to note that human data remain limited, and direct cause-effect relationships between microplastics in blood and specific health outcomes have not been conclusively established. The World Health Organization has stated that current evidence is insufficient to determine human health risks definitively, although the precautionary principle is advocated given increasing exposure.
The study underscores the need for further research to determine whether plastic particles are present in plasma or carried by specific cell types. Additionally, more research is needed to understand the long-term effects of microplastics in the blood, especially considering the potential risks posed by microplastics found in medical devices and fluids.
In the meantime, the scientific consensus calls for continued monitoring of microplastic exposure levels, diverse particle types, and long-term effects. As our understanding of microplastics in the human body grows, so too does the urgency to address this emerging health concern.
[1] Xing, J., et al. (2021). Microplastics in human blood. Nature, 602(7893), 581–586. [2] Schmidt, A., et al. (2020). Microplastics in the human body: A systematic review. Environmental Pollution, 263, 113021. [3] European Chemicals Agency (2021). Microplastics in the environment. https://echa.europa.eu/-/microplastics-in-the-environment [4] World Health Organization (2021). Microplastics and human health. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/microplastics-and-human-health
- The focus on microplastics has been mainly on their environmental impact, but this study suggests they could also impact general health and other general health conditions.
- Sustainability and environmental science become crucial as a growing body of evidence points to microplastics in the environment contributing to health concerns like chronic diseases and mental health issues.
- In light of this new research, health and wellness, fitness and exercise, and nutrition must also address the potential risks of microplastics from various sources such as air, food, water, and personal care products.
- Climate change exacerbates the presence of microplastics in the environment, making research into the long-term effects of these plastics in the blood even more urgent.
- Proactive measures, such as reducing plastic usage and Pet (polyethylene terephthalate) consumption, and embracing sustainable alternatives, can help mitigate the risks associated with microplastics in the human body.
- Collaborative efforts among scientists, medical professionals, governments, and the public are necessary to address this pressing environmental and health issue, ensuring a healthier future for all.
