Study Signals Urgent Health Risk As Microplastic Pollution Extends to Newborns
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – A recent study by Rutgers Health has revealed that microplastic pollution has infiltrated the tissues of newborn creatures, highlighting alarming health risks associated with widespread plastic use.
The discovery raises concerns about the long-term effects on human health and the environment.
Microplastic pollution has become a pervasive issue, contaminating everything from marine ecosystems to the human body. Recent research from Rutgers Health, published in Science of the Total Environment, suggests that even newborns are not spared from exposure to microplastics, raising urgent health concerns.
Microplastics, particles smaller than 5 millimeters, and nanoplastics, even tinier at less than 1 micrometer, originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items or are intentionally added to products like cosmetics. These particles have been found in oceans, rivers, and the air we breathe, posing risks to marine life and entering the human food chain.
The Rutgers Health study focused on whether microplastic particles persist in the body after birth. Researchers exposed six pregnant rats to aerosolized plastic powder for ten days. Two weeks after birth, baby rats were tested, revealing the presence of microplastics in their lungs, liver, and brain tissues.
“Nobody wants plastic in their liver,” said Phoebe A. Stapleton, senior author of the study and associate professor at Rutgers Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy. “Now that we know it’s there — as well as in other organs — the next step is to understand why and what that means.”
These findings contribute to growing evidence of the harmful effects of microplastics on health, including potential links to cancer, inflammation, and tissue damage. Stapleton hopes the results will drive increased research funding and lead to policy changes that reduce plastic pollution.
Researchers also noted that microplastics have reached the deepest parts of the oceans, disrupting marine ecosystems. Many marine animals mistake the particles for food, leading to health issues such as starvation and absorption of toxic chemicals.
Stapleton believes further research is needed to address the health impacts of plastic pollution, stating, “While plastics have undoubtedly improved consumer products, too little is known about their long-term health impacts.”
The study underscores the need for urgent action to reduce plastic pollution and mitigate its harmful effects on biodiversity and human health.