According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, there has been a significant increase in these particles in the surface waters of the sea in the last four decades. Some recent studies have also confirmed that plastic particles are finding their way into the human bloodstream and airways.
The use of plastic in every house had started from the 1950s itself, in everyday things like toothpaste, cosmetics and laundry detergent, all of which contain small particles of plastic. Along with sewage, they reach the river drains and this river- processed water reaches our home taps along with microplastics.
Besides polluting the environment, these microplastics could also lead to the danger of extinction of some species. Evidence has been found that even small particles or pieces of plastic can be very harmful to human health; bigger particles are even more harmful. This can cause serious complications in people with lung disease.
The plastics going into the sea decompose to become microplastics. These are particles whose diameter is less than 5 mm. According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, there has been a significant increase in these particles in the surface waters of the sea in the last four decades. Some recent studies have also confirmed that plastic particles are finding their way into the human bloodstream and airways.
Millions of tons of plastic are produced every year and they spread in the environment in tiny particles. At present, many studies are on to show how dangerous small particles of plastic can prove for human health. It is believed that these fine particles can remain in the lungs for a long time. They can cause inflammation in the lungs and damage the immune system. They are also carcinogenic and can cause reproductive and developmental problems.
Experts have said in a study that the things used daily fill the blood and lungs with microplastics. The researchers identified 12 types of plastic, including polypropylene, polyethylene, terephthalate, and resin. These plastics are commonly found in packaging, bottles, clothing, rope and twine. The most dangerous sources of microplastics include city dust, textiles and even tyres.
Many foods and beverages are also filling the body with microplastics. These include bottled water, salt, seafood, teabags, ready meals and canned food. It is believed that plastic particles can damage lung tissue in the long run, leading to cancer, asthma, heart attack and other health problems.
A new study has raised serious questions about its effects on human health. According to ‘Plos One Journal’, microplastics can travel through blood vessels to vascular tissue. However, scientists have not been able to determine the severity of the health effects. The University of Hull and Hull York Medical School team analysed the study by examining vein tissue from a patient undergoing heart bypass surgery. During this, 15 microplastic particles per gram and five different types of polymers were found in the vein tissue. The researchers found that all these particles were ‘alkyd resin’ (a substance found in synthetic paints) as well as ‘polyvinyl acetate’ (an adhesive in nylon) and ‘EVOS’ (a substance found in packaging materials).
The test found that the level of microplastics was higher than in lung tissue. In fact, the discovery of microplastics in the blood has been explained, but it is now known that these particles can seep into the veins, and it was not clear that they could cross the veins into vascular tissue. A recent study published in ‘Science of the Total Environment’ found microplastics present in all parts of the lungs, including the lower lungs. Coughing, shortness of breath and reduced lung capacity have been observed in textile workers due to microplastic particles released from polyester and nylon fibers, a study has revealed.
Research published in 2019 by the environmental charity ‘WWAF International’ said that there is so much plastic pollution in our environment that humans are ingesting about five grams of plastic every week, which is equivalent to eating a credit card every week. The research highlighted different areas of study being pursued by scientists. They are detecting microplastics in some human organs, including the lungs, spleen, kidneys and even the uterus. , and microfibres in synthetic clothing are being inhaled.
Another study in March confirmed the first traces of PET in blood, with some scientists calling the findings “premature” given the investigators’ small sample size. But there are concerns that if plastic is in the bloodstream, it can reach all organs. A Dutch study published in the ‘Environment International Journal’ in March last year found microplastics in 80 per cent of blood samples from 22 people. After the study, scientists warned that this material could soon enter human organs. Its presence in humans can slow down the metabolic process of cells. These fine plastic particles can increase antibiotic resistance in bacteria by up to 30 times.
Everyday plastic is releasing billions of microscopic particles into the water. In 2021, researchers found microplastics in the umbilical cord of an unborn child. Great concern was then expressed over its potential consequences for fetal development. In such a situation, where scientists have identified the presence of microplastics in the body, it can be assumed that humans have been eating, drinking or breathing small particles of plastic for years. Although health studies on humans are not yet developed, toxicity in some animals reinforces concerns.
Rishabh Mishra
Source: The Statesman, 22/02/23
