Channel: Down To Earth

Category: Science & Technology

Tags: polystyrenehealth mobilityblood samplescivil service preparationsplastic pollutionocean plasticias coachingsustainable developmentenvironmentcsedown to earthscienceenvironment internationalpet bottlesmicroplasticspackaged foodplastic in bloodupsccentre for science and environment

Description: Microplastic pollution has been detected in human blood for the first time. The study, published in the journal Environment International, tested 22 anonymous blood samples. Scientists found tiny particles of microplastics in almost 80% of the people tested. The discovery shows the particles can travel around the body and may lodge in organs. Half the samples contained PET plastic, commonly used in drinks bottles. While a third contained polystyrene, used for packaging food and other products. Some of the blood samples contained two or three types of plastic. Microplastics were also observed to cause damage to human cells in the laboratory. People were already known to consume the tiny particles via food and water. Researchers have earlier found microplastics in the faeces of babies and adults.