By David Richards
Microplastics are pervasive and can be found in various environments, including our bodies. These tiny pieces of plastic debris are a result of the disposal and breakdown of consumer products and industrial waste.
A recent study funded by NIEHS suggests that human exposure to microplastics and plastic additives may be linked to an increased risk of obesity by affecting metabolism and promoting the growth of fat cells. The researchers theorize a connection between the rise in plastic production, human exposure to microplastics, and the global increase in overweight and obesity rates.
“Plastics production has significantly increased over the past five decades, coinciding with the rise in obesity rates globally. While there are multiple factors contributing to the obesity pandemic, evidence suggests that plastics may play a significant role,” said lead author Kurunthachalam Kannan, Ph.D., a professor at the New York University Grossman School of Medicine.
The Widespread Presence of Microplastics
The amount of plastic waste has grown exponentially in recent years, leading to the breakdown of larger plastics into microplastics through processes like erosion and decomposition. These tiny plastic particles, smaller than 5 millimeters, are estimated to constitute a significant portion of the world’s plastic weight by 2060.
Microplastics come from various sources such as plastic fragments, microfibers, and microbeads, and are released into the environment, including oceans, water bodies, and air. Humans are exposed to microplastics daily through inhalation, ingestion, and other pathways.
“Microplastic exposure is a global public health issue as almost everyone encounters these particles daily,” Kannan explained. “The high levels of exposure to microplastics raise concerns about their potential health impacts.”
Health Implications of Microplastic Exposure
Long-term exposure to microplastics and plastic additives poses health risks, including potential links to obesity. These chemicals can affect metabolism, induce oxidative stress, and disrupt energy balance, leading to weight gain and other health issues.
Plastic additives may contain harmful substances that impact fat cell growth and metabolism regulation. The rising rates of obesity globally coincide with increased exposure to microplastics and plastic additives, highlighting a possible connection between the two.
Research is ongoing to understand the toxic effects of microplastics on human health and to determine how exposure levels and types of microplastics impact metabolic pathways. Developing comprehensive methods to quantify exposure and studying the sources of microplastic contamination are crucial steps in addressing this issue.
NIEHS Research on Microplastics
NIEHS supports research to explore the health risks associated with microplastic exposure. Collaborative efforts with organizations like the National Science Foundation focus on understanding the impact of microplastics on marine-related health issues.
Through initiatives like the Centers for Oceans and Human Health, researchers investigate microplastics as an emerging contaminant of concern, aiming to enhance our understanding of the health implications of microplastic exposure.
Title: Understanding the Impact of Microplastics on Human Health and Marine Ecosystems
Mark Hahn, Ph.D., a senior scientist and chair of the biology department at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, sheds light on how microplastics affect human health and marine ecosystems in a recent podcast. The NIEHS Consortium Linking Academic and Regulatory Insights on BPA Toxicity (CLARITY-BPA) program has also delved into the potential health effects of exposure to BPA, with a recent report in 2021 highlighting their findings.
In collaboration with the National Toxicology Program (NTP), NIEHS is working to determine the toxicity of plastic additives. NTP scientists have participated in workshops to discuss research needs for a better understanding of the health effects of microplastics and plastic additives. A recent review by Kannan K and Vimalkumar K sheds light on human exposure to microplastics and their role as obesogens.
The research conducted by these institutions highlights the importance of studying the impact of microplastics on both human health and the environment. By understanding the potential risks associated with microplastic pollution, we can take steps to mitigate these effects and protect our health and ecosystems.
In conclusion, the study of microplastics and their impact on human health and marine ecosystems is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by plastic pollution. Continued research and collaboration between scientific institutions will help us gain a deeper understanding of the risks associated with microplastics and develop strategies to combat their adverse effects. Stay informed and engaged in ongoing research efforts to protect our health and the environment from the harmful impacts of microplastics.
