A growing body of scientific evidence shows that microplastics are accumulating in critical human organs. Different studies have detected tiny shards and specks of plastics in human lungs, placentas, reproductive organs, livers, kidneys, knee and elbow joints, blood vessels, and bone marrow. This alarming finding highlights the urgent need for more actions to address plastic pollution, with experts asserting that a global emergency declaration is imperative to mitigate these rising health risks.
Humans are exposed to microplastics - defined as fragments smaller than five millimeters in length - and the chemicals used to make plastics from widespread plastic pollution in air, water, and even food. While the health hazards of microplastics within the human body remain largely unknown, emerging studies suggest these particles could increase the risk of conditions such as oxidative stress, leading to cell damage and inflammation, as well as cardiovascular diseases.
Those with high rates of microplastics in their arteries were found to be 4.5 times more likely to encounter a heart-related incident, which raises significant health concerns. Animal studies have linked microplastics to various reproductive and health issues, including fertility complications, different forms of cancer, and adverse effects on the endocrine and immune systems, alongside impaired learning and memory capabilities.
Currently, there are no governmental standards for plastic particles in food or water in the United States. The Environmental Protection Agency is working on developing guidelines to measure microplastics and has been issuing grants since 2018 for new techniques aimed at the quick detection and quantification of these concerning contaminants.
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