Previous studies in wild animals have linked micro- and nanoplastic exposure to infertility, inflammation and cancer, but human health outcomes are currently unknown. Now, a new study by Arizona State University researchers has for the first time found traces of micro- and nanoplastics in human organs and tissues.
The team tested 47 samples taken from lungs, liver, spleen and kidneys – four organs likely to be exposed to, filter or collect microplastics – from an existing repository of brain and body tissues set up to study neurodegenerative diseases , like Alzheimer’s.
After passing them through a mass spectrometer, they found that each sample contained traces of plastic, including polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE). Bisphenol A (BPA), a substance still used in many food containers despite health concerns, was found in all 47 human samples.
Read more about microplastics:
“You can find plastic that contaminates the environment at virtually every location in the world, and in a few short decades we have disappeared from seeing plastic as a wonderful advantage to consider it a threat,” said co- author and PhD student Charles Rolsky.
“There is evidence that plastic makes its way into our bodies, but very few studies have looked for it. And at this point we do not know if this plastic is just a nuisance or if it represents a danger to human health. ‘
The researchers also created a computer program that counts information about plastic particles in units of mass and surface area that they plan to share online so that other researchers can report their results in a standardized way.
They are now planning to investigate any health risks that may arise as a result of plastic contamination.
“We never want to be alarmed, but the point is that these non-biodegradable materials that are ubiquitous can enter and accumulate in human tissues, and we do not know the potential health effects,” said PhD student and co-author Varun Kelkar.
“Once we get a better idea of what’s in the tissues, we can conduct epidemiological studies to assess the results of human health. That way, we, as one, can begin to understand the potential health risks. ”
Reader Q&A: How does plastic get into the oceans?
Asked by: Tamsin Nicholson, via email
About 80 percent of the plastic waste found in the oceans today originated in the country today. Kittering, poor waste management and industrial activity can all plastic enter the natural environment.
A significant portion of this then blows into rivers and streams, which carry it into the ocean. This is especially true in countries where infrastructure for waste is lacking: an estimated two billion people worldwide do not have access to solid waste collection.
In addition, wastewater from our homes often contains small pieces of plastic, including microbubbles from cosmetics (now banned in the UK) and fibers from polyester clothing. Addressing plastic pollution therefore requires individuals, governments and companies around the world to work together to reduce plastic consumption and waste.
Read more:
