Effects of microplastics on health: Plastic has been used in various ways for many decades and its dangerous consequences are beginning to emerge. Nowadays, plastic has become the main cause of pollution. As a result, pollution increases from the ground to the water. Very small pieces of plastic are called microplastics.
Their size can be less than 5 millimeters or up to 1 nanometer. Microplastics have been found in air, water and food and have started to reach the human body. The situation is such that plastic particles accumulate in all parts of the human body. They are found from the intimate parts of the human body to the brain. According to a recent study, over the past 8 years, more and more pieces of plastic have reached the human brain.
According to scientists, around 0.5% of microplastic has accumulated in human brains. Microplastics that reach the human body can have a very dangerous effect on health. Let us know the health effects of microplastics and what was revealed in the new research…
Microplastic accumulates in the brain
According to a CNN report, in 2024, researchers took several human brain samples during the cadavers test and then conducted research on the microplastics in them. This research found that compared to the sample taken 8 years ago, the amount of microplastic in the human brain increased by 50%. Scientists involved in the research say the concentration of plastic in the brain tissue of people aged 45 to 50 on average was 4,800 micrograms per gram, or 0.5% by weight.
Increased risk of brain problems
According to author Matthew Campen, Regents Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of New Mexico, USA and lead author of the study, the risk of brain problems has increased due to the increasing amount of plastic in the brain compared to 2016. However, no research has yet been conducted on the damage caused by microplastics. More research is still needed to understand the effect of plastic particles on brain cells. It was also revealed that more pieces of plastic accumulated in the brain than in the kidneys and liver.
Where are microplastics found?
Studies carried out so far in this regard have shown that microplastics accumulate in the human body, from the heart, bloodstream, lungs, liver, private parts to the placenta. It’s difficult to avoid plastic in today’s life. From smartphones to computers to common household items, plastic exists. However, plastic bags and bottles can be avoided. In Richters, brain tissue samples were taken from the frontal cortex. It is the part related to thinking and reasoning and is most affected in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Health effects of microplastics
The accumulation of microplastics in parts of the human body increases the risk of cell damage and inflammation. Microplastics can disrupt endocrine functions, leading to hormonal imbalance. The chemicals present in these can cause cancer, reproductive harm, and developmental problems. Microplastics can cause intestinal upset, impairing digestion and immunity.
Disclaimer: Some information in news stories is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you should consult the relevant expert.
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