Microplastics in Human Tissue: A Growing Health Concern
Recent research presented at the ASCO Genitourinary Cancers Symposium reveals a concerning trend: the presence of microplastics in human tissues. A study evaluating 10 men with prostate cancer found microplastics in 90% of tumor samples, with concentrations more than double those found in surrounding benign prostate tissue.
The Ubiquitous Nature of Plastics
“We all should be worried about the amount of plastics we’re exposed to,” says Stacy Loeb, MD, MSc, professor of urology and population health at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. This concern stems from the increasing prevalence of plastics in everyday life and the growing evidence of their potential health impacts. Prior research has linked microplastics to increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and all-cause death, highlighting the urgency of understanding their effects on human health.
Findings in Prostate Cancer
Researchers, led by Loeb, investigated whether microplastics could be found within prostate cancer tumors. The study involved 10 men scheduled for radical prostatectomy. Rigorous protocols were implemented to minimize sample contamination during the process. The analysis revealed microplastics in 90% of tumor samples and 70% of benign tissue samples.
Types of Microplastics Identified
Tumors exhibited a mean microplastic concentration of 39.8 µg/g, compared to 15.5 µg/g in benign tissue. The most prevalent microplastics identified were nylon-6 and polystyrene, alongside polyethylene and polyethylene copolymers. “It’s scary that we literally locate pieces of water bottle in somebody’s prostate tumor,” Loeb stated. “These are incredibly common consumer plastics.”
Future Research Directions
Researchers acknowledge the limitations of the study, including its tiny sample size. Loeb and colleagues have received a grant to expand their research to 30 patients, with data expected within the next year. However, the demand for broader investigation extends beyond prostate cancer. “This is something that needs to be studied for every cancer, as well as other conditions that are linked with inflammation,” Loeb emphasized.
Reducing Exposure: Practical Steps
While further research is crucial, Loeb suggests taking proactive steps to minimize exposure. “Think through our daily routines. What are some easy swaps?” she advises, recommending avoiding heating food in plastic containers and opting for non-plastic alternatives for food storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are microplastics?
- Microplastics are small plastic particles less than 5mm in size.
- How are microplastics entering the body?
- Microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment and can enter the body through various routes, including ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact.
- Is there a way to avoid microplastic exposure?
- Reducing plastic employ, choosing non-plastic containers, and being mindful of plastic packaging can help minimize exposure.
Stacy Loeb, MD, MSc, can be reached at [email protected].
What are your thoughts on the growing presence of microplastics in our bodies? Share your concerns and ideas for reducing plastic consumption in the comments below!
