Effects of Micro Plastic and Prevention

Abstract

The term 'microplastics' designates plastic particles measuring no more than 5 millimeters in size. According to the report, the environmental contamination caused by primary microplastics arises from various sources, including tire wear, the release of textile fibers, the production of plastic pellets, and paint, compounded by inadequate waste management practices. Microplastics are defined as any plastic fragments that are less than 5 mm (0.20 in) in length. These particles pose significant health risks, including oxidative damage, DNA alterations, and modifications in gene expression, all of which are associated with an increased risk of cancer. Research has identified the presence of microplastics in human breast milk and meconium, the first stool of infants. Furthermore, they have been detected in a variety of sources, including fruits and vegetables, plastic water bottles, the atmosphere, cosmetics, and household dust. Recent studies indicate that microplastics are now found in nearly every part of the human body, including breast milk, the placenta, testicles, hearts, livers, and kidneys. The ingestion of microplastics is regarded as a serious threat to human health. Scientists have reported that exposure to plastics is linked to a range of health issues, such as cancer, congenital disabilities, and respiratory diseases. These minuscule particles can also transport or absorb harmful chemicals, including Bisphenol a (BPA), phthalates, and heavy metals, which may leach into the body and disrupt hormonal functions, resulting in endocrine disorders and other health complications. Additionally, the ingestion of microplastics can provoke inflammation within the digestive tract, potentially leading to chronic inflammatory conditions, which are associated with diseases such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and other gastrointestinal ailments.