The study found that human brain samples collected in early 2024 contained more microplastics than those collected in 2016. The concentrations in the brain tissue of individuals aged around 45 to 50 years averaged 4,800 micrograms per gram, accounting for 0.5% of the tissue’s weight. This is a 50% increase in microplastic concentration over the eight-year period.
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The research also revealed that the brain samples contained 7 to 30 times more microplastic than samples taken from the kidneys and liver.
Although the study highlights the presence of microplastics in the brain, it does not yet establish a direct link to brain damage.
The potential for microplastic to cause harm by interacting with cells and tissues in the brain is a concern that warrants further investigation.
The primary route through which micro and nanoplastics enter the human body is through diet. These particles can be ingested with food and beverages particularly those stored in plastic containers or wrapped in plastic film.
Inhalation is another route of exposure. Microplastics can be present in the air particularly in urban environments or near coastlines.
Activities such as driving can release microplastics from tire abrasion, while ocean waves can disperse plastic particles into the air.
Microplastic have also been found in various other human organs including the heart, lungs, liver, testes, gastrointestinal tract and placenta.
Nanoplastics, which are smaller than 1 micrometer in size pose the risk to human health because they can penetrate individual cells.
The study suggests that these nanoplastics may cross the blood-brain barrier, a protective shield that typically prevents harmful substances from entering the brain.
One hypothesis is that nanoplastics attach to lipids or fats during digestion. Since the brain is composed of approximately 60% fat, these plastics may be transported to the brain, where they can accumulate.
The study identified polyethylene as the most common type of plastic found in the brain, liver and kidney tissues. Polyethylene is widely used in plastic bags, films and bottles, and is not biodegradable.
Polyethylene terephthalate another form of plastic, was also highlighted for its contribution to environmental pollution through the release of 1,4-dioxane.
Microplastic may carry chemicals that disrupt the endocrine system leading to reproductive health issues such as infertility, genital malformations and reduced sperm counts.
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Research has identified microplastics in multiple human organs including the lungs, liver, kidneys, reproductive organs, blood vessels and bone marrow.
A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health found that the human brain contains more microplastics than any other organ.
The study analyzed 91 brain samples revealing that 24 of them contained an average of 0.5% plastic by weight.
Microplastics can lead to oxidative stress, which causes cell damage and inflammation. These conditions are linked to a range of diseases including cardiovascular disorders.
The study hinted at a possible connection between microplastics and neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Brain samples from individuals who had these conditions contained up to 10 times more microplastics than those from healthy individuals.
Research on animals has shown that microplastics can cause fertility issues various cancers and disruptions to the endocrine and immune systems.
The study revealed that brain samples from 2024 had approximately 50% more microplastics than samples from 2016. The accumulation of microplastics in the environment mirrors the increasing levels found in human tissues.
A study published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials found microplastics in all 16 bone marrow samples examined. This was the first study to document such contamination in bone marrow.
Another study from China discovered microplastics in the membranous lining of hip and knee joints in 45 patients undergoing surgery.
Microplastic have also been found in human and canine testicles with higher concentrations in humans. This discovery is concerning given the impacts on fertility and reproductive health.
Minimize the use of plastic packaging, especially when heating food. Transferring food from plastic containers to glass or ceramic ones before microwaving can reduce the release of microplastics into your food.
Opt for cloth, paper or recyclable bags instead of plastic ones when shopping. Switch to using metal or glass bottles instead of plastic water bottles. When dining out or getting takeout, bring your own containers and utensils to reduce the use of single-use plastics.
Work with local governments and organizations to implement policies that reduce plastic waste such as bans on plastic bags or incentives for using reusable items.
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