New findings show that microplastic particles can move around the body and reside in various organs.
According to The Guardian, this is the first time microplastic pollution has been detected in human blood. Scientists found these tiny particles in the blood of nearly 80% of the individuals tested.
The discovery indicates that these particles can circulate throughout the body and infiltrate multiple organs. Currently, the health effects of microplastics remain undetermined. However, researchers express concern as microplastics have been shown to damage human cells in laboratory settings. Tiny air pollution particles have already invaded the body, causing millions of premature deaths each year.
Particles can move around the body and infiltrate various organs.
The vast amounts of plastic waste released into the environment and microplastics are polluting the entire planet, from the summit of Mount Everest to the deepest oceans. Microplastics in the air can also enter the human bloodstream through the respiratory tract. Diet and environment are primary pathways for microplastics to enter human blood. They have been found in the feces of both infants and adults.
A team of experts analyzed blood samples from 22 anonymous adult donors, all of whom were healthy. They discovered plastic particles in 17 of these individuals. Notably, 50% of the samples contained PET plastic, commonly used in beverage bottles. One-third contained polystyrene, a material used for food packaging and other products. Additionally, one-quarter of the blood samples contained polyethylene, the substance used to make nylon bags.
Daily hygiene and personal care products, such as detergents, toothpaste, and shampoos, also contain microplastic particles, which can enter water systems through wastewater. Furthermore, fiber products like clothing and towels release microfibers during washing.
“Our study is the first sign of the presence of polymer particles in human blood. This is a groundbreaking result,” said Professor Dick Vethaak, an expert in ecological toxicology at Vrije University Amsterdam, Netherlands.
The expert added: “But we need to expand the research and increase the sample size, as well as the number of polymers evaluated.” Other expert teams are conducting further investigations into these issues.
Commenting on the presence of microplastics in human blood, Professor Vethaak told The Guardian: “This makes perfect sense. They are in the blood and circulated throughout the body.” According to Vethaak, previous studies have also indicated that microplastics in the feces of infants are ten times higher than in adults, and babies fed from bottles are swallowing millions of microplastic particles daily. “Infants and young children are more vulnerable to exposure to chemicals and particles. This greatly concerns me,” the expert expressed.
The new study published in the journal Environment International has refined detection techniques to identify and analyze ultrafine particles as small as 0.0007 mm. Some blood samples contained 2 or 3 different types of microplastics.
Professor Vethaak revealed that there are significant variations in the quantity and type of plastic found among the blood samples. He affirmed that this is pioneering research that raises a multitude of issues that need to be addressed. The differences observed may reflect short-term exposure just before blood sampling, such as volunteers drinking from plastic-lined coffee cups or wearing plastic masks.
“The big question is what is happening inside our bodies? Are the particles being retained? Are they transported to specific organs, such as crossing the blood-brain barrier? And at what level are they sufficient to trigger disease? We urgently propose funding for more in-depth studies,” Professor Vethaak stated. Their research is funded by the Dutch National Institute for Health and the Environment, an organization focused on reducing plastic pollution.
Jo Royle, founder of the charity Common Seas, stated: “Plastic production will double by 2040. We have the right to know everything about this plastic and its effects on the human body.”
Common Seas and over 80 NGOs and scientists are urging the UK government to allocate £15 million for research on the health impacts of plastics. The EU has funded studies on the effects of microplastics on fetuses and infants, as well as the immune system.
A recent study found that microplastics can attach to the outer membrane of red blood cells and hinder their oxygen transport capacity. Microplastics have also been found in the placentas of pregnant women, and in pregnant mice, they quickly traverse from the lungs to the heart, brain, and other organs of the fetus.
A paper published on March 23, co-authored by Professor Vethaak, assessed cancer risks and concluded: “More detailed research on how microplastics and nanoplastics affect human body structure, whether they can alter cells, and cause carcinogenic substances, is urgently needed, especially as plastic production increases exponentially. The problem is becoming more urgent every day.”
This discovery reminds us that plastic pollution is not limited to the oceans and land but has also infiltrated our bodies. This is a concerning reality but also gives us an opportunity for change. By working together, we can reduce the impact of microplastics on health and the environment while creating a more sustainable future for the next generation.
Plastic products have entered our daily lives, including many essential items.
Solutions to Combat Microplastic Pollution
In the face of the potential harm microplastics pose to human blood, measures must be taken to reduce plastic pollution. Firstly, there should be enhanced legislation and monitoring, promoting measures to minimize, recover, and recycle plastic products, while reducing the amount of plastic produced and released into the environment.
Secondly, consumers should raise awareness about the environment, reduce the use of single-use plastics, and choose eco-friendly and biodegradable alternatives.
Scientists should conduct further research on the impact of microplastics and seek solutions, such as developing effective plastic filtration technologies or exploring alternative materials.
Let’s give plastic a chance to stop and choose environmentally friendly alternatives. Use paper or cloth bags instead of plastic bags when shopping, and opt for glass, ceramic, or stainless steel containers instead of plastic ones. Additionally, choose products with ingredient lists and packaging free from microplastics.
Microplastics are prevalent in water, so we should pay attention to filtering drinking and cooking water. Use water filters or mineral water to eliminate any potential microplastic particles in the water.
Try to select food that is not contaminated by plastic. Buy fresh ingredients instead of packaged foods. Also, choose sustainable seafood products and avoid those caught in ways that negatively impact the marine environment.
