Researchers have found that microplastics detected in human brains indicate that these tiny plastic particles are more prevalent in the brain than in other parts of the body. This discovery emphasizes the urgent need to tackle plastic pollution.

Microplastics, which are particles smaller than 5mm have been detected in human organs such as the lungs, liver, kidneys and even bone marrow. However a recent study conducted by the National Institutes of Health reveals that these particles accumulate, in the brain. Experts describe the findings as surprising showing that brain tissue contains 10 to 20 times more microplastics than other organs studied. This makes the brain one of the areas in the human body.

The research examined the livers, kidneys and brains of deceased individuals and found microplastics. Sedat Gündoğdu from Cukurova University emphasized the need, for action to address plastic pollution based on these results.

Microplastics Detected in Human Brains
Image Source: National Geographic

Broader Implications of Microplastics Detected in Human Brains on Human Health

Matthew Campen, the lead researcher and a professor at the University of New Mexico expressed his surprise at the levels of plastics found in brain samples. In instances the brains particularly those collected in 2024 contained approximately 0.5% plastic by weight. This marks an increase, roughly 50% higher than samples obtained in 2016.

Moreover preliminary findings indicate a potential link between concentrations of microplastics and neurological disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer's although these results are still undergoing review and have not yet been published.

This discovery adds to mounting concerns regarding the health effects of microplastics following studies. For example research conducted in China identified microplastics in the membranes surrounding hip and knee joints while another study detected these particles in both human and canine testicles.

The widespread occurrence of plastics in areas of the body, particularly the brain, necessitates urgent and thorough action to tackle the origins and effects of plastic pollution on human well being.

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