Scientists have long been aware of the infiltration of microplastics into the human body. However, the health implications of these tiny plastic particles remained unclear—until now. A groundbreaking study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has revealed a startling connection between microplastics in the heart and an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and even death.
The Study
The Italian researchers behind this study took samples of carotid plaque from 257 patients undergoing surgery to remove these fatty deposits that can clog arteries. The goal was to identify the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics in the plaque. Astonishingly, they found these particles in nearly 60% of the patients.
Microplastics Identified
The team was able to pinpoint specific types of microplastics in the samples. Polyethylene, the most commonly used plastic globally, appeared in 58% of the samples, while polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was found in about 12%. Additionally, higher levels of inflammation markers were detected in patients with microplastics in their plaque, aligning with previous studies suggesting that microplastics promote inflammation.
Long-term Health Implications
To understand the long-term health effects, the researchers followed up with the patients three years later. The findings were alarming: patients with microplastics in their plaque were twice as likely to suffer from heart attacks, strokes, or death compared to those without.
“This is pivotal,” says Philip Landrigan, an epidemiologist and professor of biology at Boston College. “For so long, people have been saying these things are in our bodies, but we don’t know what they do.”
Unanswered Questions
The study raises several important questions: Why do some people have microplastics in their plaque while others do not? How do these particles end up in the plaque? Are certain populations more at risk? Moreover, if microplastics can infiltrate the heart, what might they do to other organs where they’ve been found, like the lungs, spleen, or placenta?
“If they can get into the heart, why not into the brain, the nervous system?” Landrigan asks. “What about the impacts on dementia or other chronic neurological diseases?”
Theories and Speculations
While the study establishes a connection, it does not show causality. The researchers speculate that the problem might stem from the fragility of the plaque itself. Giuseppe Paolisso, a professor of internal medicine and geriatrics at the University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli in Naples, suggests, “We suppose due to the fact that the plaques with microplastics and nanoplastics have a higher degree of inflammation, this kind of plaque can be broken more easily; and once they are broken, they can go into the bloodstreams.”
Broader Implications
Landrigan believes these findings should prompt physicians to consider microplastic exposure as a potential cardiovascular risk factor. However, addressing this issue is complex given the pervasive nature of plastic in our environment. With global plastic production expected to double by 2040 and triple by 2060, mostly in single-use plastics, reducing exposure seems daunting.
A Call to Action
Landrigan emphasizes the need to recognize the hidden harms of plastic. He encourages patients to reduce their use of plastics, especially single-use items, and calls on medical professionals to support the United Nations Global Plastics Treaty, advocating for a global cap on plastic production. He criticizes fossil fuel companies for shifting their focus to plastic production as their market for burning fossil fuels declines.
Future Research
The new study marks a significant step toward understanding the impact of microplastics on human health. Landrigan anticipates that other cardiology researchers will attempt to replicate these findings, potentially leading to more comprehensive studies in the future.
This research highlights the urgent need to address the growing plastic pollution crisis and its far-reaching effects on human health. As we navigate a world increasingly contaminated by plastic, understanding these impacts becomes crucial for safeguarding our well-being.
