Maya Ellison
Plastic is everywhere. From the deepest point in the ocean to the peak of Mount Everest, plastic pollution has spread across the globe. It is therefore unsurprising that plastic has been found in the human body. Microplastics, defined as plastic pieces less than 5mm across, have been detected in human blood, breast milk, the placenta, testicles, hearts, livers, kidneys, and lungs. They have also been found in our food and water, as well as in household dust and cosmetics. While the health risks of microplastics are not yet fully understood, studies in mice have shown that exposure can lead to inflammation, reduced sperm quality and testosterone levels, and negatively affect learning and memory. With plastic so pervasive in our environment, it is important to understand the potential impact it may have on our health.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic particles found in the human body | Lungs, breast milk, blood, placenta, testicles, hearts, livers, kidneys, gut, brain |
| Plastic particles found in the environment | Oceans, lakes, rivers, land, air, fruits, vegetables, water bottles, cosmetics, household dust |
| Plastic particles from degraded plastic products | Tires, textiles, synthetic clothes, wildfire smoke, industrial fertilizers |
| Plastic particles in food | Seafood (especially mollusks), food stored in plastic containers |
| Impact on human health | Allergic reactions, cell death, cardiovascular disease, low male fertility, endocrine disruption, colon cancer, other gastrointestinal cancers |
| Ways to reduce exposure | Use natural toothpastes, organic food, stainless steel water bottles, glass/wood/metal kitchen items, natural soaps/scrubs/lotions, open windows, vacuum, air purification, specialized microplastics-removal devices |
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What You'll Learn
Microplastics are in our bodies
Microplastics, defined as plastic pieces less than 5 millimeters across, are everywhere. They have been found in the deepest place on Earth, the Mariana Trench, and at the top of Mount Everest. They are in the oceans, lakes, rivers, and soil. They are in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink. They are also in our bodies.
Scientists have long studied the impact of plastic on the environment, but only recently have they discovered the extent to which microplastics have become embedded in the environment and in human bodies. Microplastics have been detected in almost every part of the human body, including breast milk, the placenta, testicles, hearts, livers, kidneys, blood, and lungs.
The health risks of microplastics in the human body are still unknown. However, studies in mice suggest that microplastics are not benign and can lead to inflammation, disrupt the gut microbiome, lower sperm quality and testosterone levels, and negatively affect learning and memory. In addition, chemicals often found in plastics, such as Bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are known to imitate hormones and disrupt the body's natural endocrine system, which governs processes such as growth, development, metabolism, appetite, mood, and reproduction.
While there is no known "microplastics detox," individuals can take steps to limit their exposure to microplastics. This includes proper ventilation and regular cleaning to remove dust, which often contains microplastics, from surfaces and the air. Individuals can also avoid cosmetics and personal care products containing microbeads and choose to buy clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and hemp instead of synthetic materials like acrylic and polyester.
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Health risks of microplastics
Microplastics are plastic pieces smaller than 5mm in diameter. They are found everywhere, from the Mariana Trench to Mount Everest, and are now being found in the human body. They can enter the human body through oral intake, inhalation, and skin contact. They have been detected in human blood, breast milk, the placenta, testicles, hearts, livers, kidneys, and lungs.
The health risks of microplastics are not yet fully understood, but they have been linked to a variety of negative health outcomes. Studies in mice have shown that exposure to microplastics can disrupt the gut microbiome, lead to inflammation, lower sperm quality and testosterone levels, and negatively affect learning and memory. In zebrafish, microplastics have been shown to cause complex toxicity.
In humans, microplastics have been associated with cardiovascular disease, low male fertility, and colon cancer. They have also been found to cause oxidative stress, DNA damage, organ dysfunction, metabolic disorder, immune response, neurotoxicity, and reproductive and developmental toxicity in experimental models. The World Health Organization has called for more research and regulation, as current technologies cannot quantify population-level microplastics exposures or gauge what proportion of those particles stay in our bodies.
To reduce exposure to microplastics, individuals can avoid high-risk foods such as shellfish, which has been found to contain high levels of microplastics, and choose organic food, which is less exposed to industrial fertilizers containing microplastics. Individuals can also avoid cosmetics and personal care products containing microbeads and choose natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and hemp instead of synthetic materials like acrylic and polyester to reduce the shedding of microplastics during wear and washing.
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Reducing plastic exposure
Kitchen and Food:
- Avoid using plastic containers to store food, especially for heating or microwaving, as heat causes plastic to release harmful chemicals like BPA. Opt for glass, ceramic, wood, or metal containers instead.
- Minimize the consumption of fast food, as it often contains higher levels of phthalates and plasticizers due to the use of vinyl gloves during preparation and the higher fat content of the food.
- Eat fresh and organic food with minimal processing. Choose unpackaged fruits and vegetables to reduce the chances of contact with phthalates and other chemicals.
- Avoid high-risk foods like mollusks (clams, mussels, oysters, scallops), which tend to have higher levels of microplastics.
- Stay hydrated to help flush out toxins from your body.
Personal Care and Household Products:
- Choose natural alternatives for toothpaste, soap, scrub, lotion, and other personal care products to avoid microbeads and microplastics.
- Opt for fragrance-free products, as fragrances often use phthalates as a solvent.
- Use glass, steel, or sustainable alternatives for water bottles, straws, and other single-use plastics.
- When purchasing clothing, opt for natural fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, wool, hemp, and other organic materials instead of synthetic fabrics like polyester and acrylic, as they shed fewer microfibers.
General Tips:
- Vacuum and clean your home regularly to reduce dust, which often contains microplastics.
- Use a HEPA filter to capture airborne particles.
- Opt for hard flooring over carpet, as carpets release more microplastics into the air.
- When possible, choose alternative materials for items like shower curtains, flooring, car interiors, and vinyl products, as plasticizers are a key ingredient in vinyl.
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Plastic particles in lungs
Plastic particles, or microplastics, have been found in human lung tissue, with evidence suggesting that we are breathing in these particles. Microplastics have been detected in the air, and once inhaled, they can accumulate in the lungs, causing damage to lung tissue and cells, and potentially impacting our immune systems.
A study of human lung tissue from England reported that microplastics showed up in 11 out of 13 samples, including the upper, middle, and lower lobes. Another study from Brazil found microplastics in 13 out of 20 people analyzed, with polyethylene, commonly used in plastic bags, being one of the most common particles. A US study from 1998 also found plastic and plant fibers in more than 100 lung cancer patient samples.
The presence of microplastics in the lungs can be particularly concerning for individuals with pre-existing pulmonary conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Exposure to microplastics can exacerbate inflammation in the lungs, leading to further health complications.
Computational models and simulations have been instrumental in understanding the impact of microplastic deposition in the lungs. These models enable the investigation of particle dynamics, deposition patterns, and interaction mechanisms. However, the complex anatomy and physiological processes of the respiratory system present challenges in obtaining relevant data for model validation.
The sources of microplastics in the lungs can vary. Primary microplastics are intentionally produced at a microscale for commercial use, such as in agrochemicals or pharmaceuticals. They can enter the body through direct use, such as swallowing toothpaste containing microbeads. Secondary microplastics result from the breakdown of larger plastic pieces over time due to exposure to weather conditions like sunlight and saltwater. These microplastics can be found in the air and eventually be inhaled.
While the health risks of plastic particles in the lungs are not yet fully understood, there is growing concern about the potential impact on human health. Some studies have linked microplastics to poor health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease and low male fertility. Additionally, the chemicals found in plastics, such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, can imitate hormones and disrupt the body's natural endocrine system, affecting processes like growth, development, metabolism, appetite, mood, and reproduction.
To reduce exposure to microplastics, individuals can take measures such as using natural toothpastes, opting for organic food, avoiding high-risk seafood like mollusks, and reducing the use of plastic products in the kitchen. Proper ventilation, regular cleaning, and air purification can also help remove dust and microplastics from the air and surfaces.
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Plastic particles in blood
Plastic particles, or microplastics, have been detected in human blood, with one study finding plastic particles in 17 out of 22 blood samples. Microplastics are plastic pieces less than 5 millimeters across, and they can come from degraded plastic products found throughout the environment. They can be found in the air, water, food, and various products we use daily, such as cosmetics, clothing, and kitchenware.
The presence of microplastics in human blood is a concerning issue that requires further scientific research to understand its potential impact on human health. While the polymer types and concentrations of microplastics in blood samples varied, commonly used plastics such as PET, polystyrene, and polyethylene were detected. These plastics are used in drinks bottles, food packaging, and plastic carrier bags, respectively.
The health risks associated with microplastics in the body are not yet fully understood. However, some studies have linked microplastics to potential health issues. For example, microplastics may act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with the body's natural hormone balance and leading to issues such as fertility problems, blood sugar imbalances, metabolic issues, and autoimmune diseases. Additionally, studies in mice have shown that exposure to microplastics can cause gut microbiome disruption, inflammation, reduced sperm quality and testosterone levels, and negative impacts on learning and memory.
The widespread presence of microplastics in the environment and human bodies has led to increasing concerns about plastic pollution. Scientists have recommended reducing plastic exposure and supporting organizations working to eliminate single-use plastics and find healthier alternatives. It is important to prioritize precaution and prevention to minimize potential health risks associated with microplastics in human blood.
While the full extent of the harm caused by microplastics is not yet known, the fact that they are present in human blood underscores the importance of addressing plastic pollution and reducing our reliance on plastic products.
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Frequently asked questions
Microplastics are plastic pieces that are less than 5 millimeters across. They are either intentionally produced for commercial use or result from the breakdown of larger plastic items.
Microplastics can enter our bodies through direct use or unintentional exposure. For instance, by swallowing toothpaste that contains microbeads or inhaling plastic particles present in the air.
The health risks of microplastics in the body are not yet fully understood. Some studies have linked microplastics to poor health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease and low male fertility. Research in mice suggests that microplastics can disrupt the gut microbiome, lead to inflammation, lower sperm quality and testosterone levels, and negatively affect learning and memory. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the full extent of the health risks associated with microplastic exposure.
