For the first time, microplastics have been found in human blood, according to a recent study. According to a study published in the journal Environment International, scientists discovered signs of small particles in nearly 80 percent of the samples analyzed by a team of Dutch researchers.
The scientists examined blood samples from 22 anonymous donors and discovered microplastics in 17 of them.
Microplastics are little bits of plastic with a diameter of less than 0.2 inch (5mm). The discovery is significant because it shows that particles can migrate around the human body and may even be capable of lodging in organs.
While the influence of these particles on our health is unknown, researchers are concerned due to rising pollution levels worldwide and the increasing number of deaths caused by air pollutants each year.
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), which is used to produce disposable bottles, was found in half of the samples collected. According to the research, polystyrene, which is commonly used in food packaging, was discovered to be a constituent in 36% of the samples acquired, and polyethylene, which is used in packaging films and bags, was found to be a constituent in 23% of the samples obtained.
Such particles, according to Professor Dick Vethaak, an ecotoxicologist at Vrije University Amsterdam, can induce persistent inflammation. The researcher continued, saying, “Good ventilation of the house is important because microplastic concentrations appear to be higher indoors than outdoors. I also cover my food and drinks to reduce the deposition of plastic particles.”
Microplastics have also been detected in the brain, intestines, and placenta of unborn kids, according to previous study. Microplastics can cling to the outer membranes of red blood cells, limiting their ability to transport oxygen, according to another study.
Pregnant women’s placentas have also been shown to contain the particles. They quickly move through the lungs of pregnant rats and into the hearts, brains, and other organs of the foetuses.
Plastic is currently one of the most polluting materials on the world. Massive volumes of plastic debris are poured into the oceans from mountains. Microplastics were discovered in fish and other seafood samples from the Sal Estuary in Goa in January 2021.
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