Uncovering Microplastics in Human Arteries: A Groundbreaking Study
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Microplastics
A recent investigation led by researchers from the University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli in Italy uncovered an astonishing revelation: microplastics have been detected in arterial plaques. These minuscule plastic fragments, typically less than 5 millimeters long, were found in about 60% of the plaques taken from patients suffering from atherosclerosis.
Here are the main findings from the research:
Microplastics in Arterial Plaques
Approximately 60% of patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy—a surgical method used to remove plaque from the carotid artery—showed measurable levels of polyethylene within the arterial plaques extracted. Furthermore, 12% of these individuals had traces of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in their arterial tissues.
Health Implications
Patients with microplastics in their arterial plaques were found to be 4.5 times more prone to experiencing a heart attack, stroke, or mortality within about 34 months post-surgery compared to those without microplastics in their plaques. Atherosclerosis, marked by plaque accumulation in arteries, is a significant contributor to cardiovascular diseases, responsible for nearly 50% of deaths in Western nations.
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that can be either deliberately created (like microbeads and glitter) or arise from the degradation of larger plastic items (such as clothing and food packaging) in the environment. Both humans and animals can be exposed to microplastics via contaminated drinking water, seafood, food salts, and even honey. It is estimated that Americans consume between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles annually.
The first video discusses the groundbreaking discovery of microplastics in human blood. This first-ever detection raises significant questions about health implications.
Other Instances of Plastic in Nature
Seabirds Ingesting Microplastics: A comprehensive review indicated that nearly all seabird species, including those in polar areas, have ingested microplastics. These particles are widespread in marine ecosystems and present risks to wildlife.
Microplastics in Human Placenta: Another recent study identified microplastics in every human placenta examined. The presence of synthetic particles in prenatal tissues highlights a looming crisis with unknown consequences for human health.
Microplastics in Various Environmental Niches: Researchers have documented microplastics in multiple environments:
- Deep Oceans: Microplastics have been discovered in deep ocean waters.
- Arctic and Antarctic Regions: They are found in Arctic snow and Antarctic ice.
- Shellfish: These particles have been detected in shellfish.
- Table Salt: Traces of microplastics are even present in table salt.
- Drinking Water and Beer: Microplastics have been identified in both drinking water and beer.
- Airborne Microplastics: They can be airborne and may fall as precipitation over mountains and urban areas.
This study emphasizes the potential health risks associated with microplastic exposure and highlights the urgent need for further investigation and awareness regarding plastic pollution and its effects on human health.
For additional insights, you can read the complete study published in The New England Journal of Medicine.
Chapter 2: Further Research and Awareness
The second video elaborates on the findings of researchers who have identified microplastics in human blood for the first time, shedding light on the growing concern of plastic pollution.