We do not know exactly how much microplastic enters the human body every day and what the possible consequences are. Thin pieces of plastic are called microplastics. Few studies have so far been conducted to address basic questions related to human health.
Plastic waste is increasing rapidly around the world, affecting everything from ecosystems to people. But we don’t know enough about its side effects. We do not know exactly how much microplastic enters the human body every day and what the possible consequences are. Thin pieces of plastic are called microplastics. Few studies have so far been conducted to address basic questions related to human health.
These studies estimate that, on average, 0.1 to 5 grams of microplastics enter the human body every week around the world. Generally, these particles can enter the body through food or drink, through breathing, and even through the skin. After entering the human body, these microscopic particles (less than 5mm) move into the digestive, respiratory, and circulatory systems. In the long run, microplastics can pose a serious risk to human health, as the contaminants they contain have been linked to various diseases.
These include cardiovascular and reproductive problems, as well as obesity, diabetes, and cancer. Therefore, it is imperative that researchers determine the amount of microplastics entering the human body and its potential effects. A definitive global average rate of ingestion of microplastics (entering the body) is needed to assist in human health risk assessment and effective policymaking and management.
This preliminary study suggests that microplastic particles can enter the human body with water, fish, salt, beer, honey, and sugar. Globally, each person probably ingests between 11,845 and 193,200 microplastic particles (7.7 g to 287 g) per year. The largest source of these particles is drinking water, which includes both tap water and bottled water. This estimate of the average rate of ingestion of microplastics can form the basis of a risk assessment for human health.
In addition to food and drink, microplastic particles also enter the human body through house dust, putting humans at greater risk. This potentially results in an additional 26 to 130 microplastic particles being exposed to the lungs each day. Bottled water was generally reported to contain large amounts of microplastics and packaging and processing could be the main reasons for this. Untreated or dirty water is not included in the study because it is challenging to identify and quantify fine plastic particles. Interestingly, to date, the amount of microplastics found in raw water samples was the same as that found in bottled water.
Disclaimer:Prabhasakshi has not edited this news. This news has been published from PTI-language feed.