It has been revealed that microplastics are able to find their way into the body, and they can harm the human organism. Check out the latest reports about the matter below.
Microplastics effects
Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments that are created during the production, usage, and recycling of plastic products. They can cause a wide range of health problems once they enter the human body.
These health issues may include respiratory and digestive problems, sleep disruption, obesity, and an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and even cancer.
Microplastics come in various shapes, including blocks, filaments, and spheres.
They are typically less than 5 mm in diameter or length. People can come into contact with microplastics through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Smaller microplastics that are fiber-shaped are generally more harmful to health.
Harming the walls of the digestive systems
Various studies have found that the consumption of microplastics can result in harm to the walls of the digestive system, leading to inflammation, oxidative stress, and changes in the gut microbiome.
This can further lead to serious health problems such as autoimmune diseases, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases.
On the other hand, inhaling microplastics can cause irritation and damage to the respiratory system, which may result in respiratory disorders like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
Exposure to microplastics through skin contact can result in itching, and inflammation, and may cause endocrine disorders and harm to the reproductive system.
Microplastics can also carry concentrated amounts of harmful chemicals and pollutants, posing direct health risks to individuals.
A British research review lists a plethora of health risks associated with exposure to microplastics, including hearing disorders, poor thyroid function, obesity, low semen quality, childhood asthma, increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, and more.
It is also worth noting the fact that microplastics in the environment can disturb circadian rhythms and melatonin secretion, resulting in sleep disorders. Studies suggest that microplastics can disrupt hormone regulation and metabolism, causing weight gain and ultimately leading to obesity.
Microplastics were found in heart tissue and blood samples of patients who underwent heart surgery, according to a study published in Environmental Science & Technology.
Researchers collected samples from 15 patients and found nine types of plastic particles in five types of tissue, with diameters up to 469 microns. Blood samples taken before and after surgery showed the presence of nine types of plastic particles, with the largest measuring 184 microns.
