Study Finds Toxic Microplastics Present in All Human Placentas Examined by Scientists

March 7, 2024 TruthUSA

The widespread prevalence of microplastics in human tissue could potentially explain the increasing incidence of colon cancer among younger individuals.

Microplastics, known to trigger asthma, damage the liver, cause cancer, and impair reproductive function, have been found in human placenta.

The peer-reviewed study, published in the Toxicological Sciences journal on Feb. 17, examined nano- and microplastic (NMP) pollution in humans. Researchers discovered microplastics in all 62 placenta samples tested, with concentrations ranging from 6.5 to 790 micrograms per gram of tissue. The placenta, an important organ developed in the uterus during pregnancy, provides oxygen and nutrients to the baby while eliminating waste products from the child’s blood.

The most common microplastic found in the samples was polyethylene, constituting 54 percent of all detected NMPs and consistently present in nearly all samples.

Polyethylene has been associated with health issues like asthma, hormone disruption affecting reproduction, and skin irritation or dermatitis.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and nylon each accounted for approximately 10 percent of the NMPs by weight. PVC has been linked to liver and reproductive system damage and is considered carcinogenic. Although nylon itself is deemed safe, chemical treatments during manufacturing can pose health risks.

The remaining 26 percent of microplastics found in the 62 placenta samples included nine other polymers. Matthew Campen, a Professor in the UNM Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences who led the study, expressed concerns about the growing presence of microplastics and its potential health impacts.

Impacts of Microplastics

In 2020, microplastics were first detected in human placenta in a study from Italy. Researchers examined six placentas and identified 12 microplastic fragments in four of them. “Microplastics were found in all placental portions: maternal, fetal, and amniochorial membranes,” the study reported.

“Microplastics carry substances that, acting as endocrine disruptors, could have long-term effects on human health,” it added.

In 2022, microplastics were found in the lungs of a living individual for the first time. Out of 13 lung samples, 11 contained 39 microplastics. Researchers noted common microplastics in bottles, packaging, clothing, and ropes among the 12 types identified.

A recent study revealed microplastics in the majority of protein foods such as chicken, pork, seafood, beef, and plant-based meat alternatives. The study included processed and unprocessed food items.

About half of the identified microplastics were fibers, reflecting findings from other studies, with almost a third being plastic fragments.

A 2023 study on mice found that a three-week exposure to microplastics caused “behavioral changes and alterations in immune markers in liver and brain tissues. The study noted age-dependent effects on these changes.”

Another study on mice indicated that nanometer-sized particles reached the animals’ brains just two hours after exposure. A third study found that inhaled microplastic and nanoplastic particles could “alter inflammatory, cardiovascular, and endocrine activity.”

Microplastics have also been discovered in human breast milk. Researchers expressed concerns over nanoparticles found in human placenta as well.

“The chemicals possibly contained in foods, beverages, and personal care products consumed by breastfeeding mothers could be transferred to offspring, potentially causing a toxic effect,” the researchers noted.

“Therefore, enhanced scientific research efforts are essential to understand the potential health risks of microplastic accumulation, especially in infants, and to develop innovative ways to reduce exposure during pregnancy and nursing,” they added.

Since the 1950s, global plastic usage has dramatically increased, resulting in a metric ton of plastic waste generated per person worldwide. Around a third of produced plastic is still in use, with the rest being discarded or sent to landfills where it begins to degrade.

Mr. Campen highlighted that many plastics have a long half-life, referring to the time required for half of a sample to degrade.

“The half-life of some substances is 300 years, while others have a half-life of 50 years, but over 300 years, some plastic degrades. The microplastics we see today in the environment are likely around 40 to 50 years old,” he explained.

Source link