From oceans to mountains, microplastics have infiltrated almost every corner of the planet. These tiny plastic particles have also been detected in nearly every human organ, including the heart, brain, lungs, kidneys, and even the placenta. A growing body of research suggests that their presence in our systems may have alarming health implications.

A recent study published in Environmental Science and Technology has found potential links between airborne microplastics and serious health risks, including lung and colon cancers. Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, conducted an extensive analysis of nearly 3,000 research papers involving both humans and animals to explore the effects of microplastics on respiratory, digestive, and reproductive health.

Key findings

• Airborne microplastics, primarily shed from tires and degrading plastic waste, have emerged as a significant form of air pollution.
• These tiny particles, defined as smaller than 5 millimeters, can embed deep within lung tissues, causing chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. These conditions can lead to DNA damage and cell mutations, both of which are major contributors to cancer development.
• Microplastics in the digestive system can disrupt the gut microbiome, trigger local inflammation, and increase the risk of colon cancer.
• Chemicals commonly found in plastics, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, can disrupt endocrine functions and promote tumor growth.

Pervasiveness of microplastics

Globally, around 460 million metric tons of plastic are produced each year, a number projected to double by 2050. A significant portion of airborne microplastics comes from tire wear and road friction, which releases particles into the air that we breathe. “These microplastics are particulate matter air pollution, and we know this type of air pollution is harmful,” said Tracey J. Woodruff, PhD, MPH, a professor at UCSF.

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Health impacts

Dr. Pooja Babbar explained that when inhaled, microplastics can lodge deep within lung tissues, leading to inflammation and oxidative stress. Such an environment fosters cell mutations that may result in lung cancer. Ingested microplastics can wreak havoc on the digestive system by disturbing gut bacteria and triggering chronic inflammation, which raises the likelihood of colon cancer.

Steps to combat microplastic pollution

To tackle the growing crisis of microplastic pollution, experts recommend:

1. Improved Recycling Methods: Enhance global recycling infrastructure to minimize plastic waste.
2. Eliminating Single-Use Plastics: Reduce reliance on disposable plastics such as bags, straws, and bottles.
3. Public Awareness: Educate individuals on the risks of microplastic exposure and the importance of reducing plastic use.

What you can do

Individuals can take simple yet effective measures to reduce exposure to microplastics, such as:

• Wearing masks in areas with high air pollution.
• Reducing plastic consumption in daily life.
• Supporting initiatives aimed at reducing plastic pollution.

This study underscores the urgent need for collective action to address the pervasive presence of microplastics in our environment and their detrimental impact on human health.