Patients who suffer heart attacks exhibit significantly higher concentrations of micro and nanoplastics in their coronary blood compared to individuals with chronic ischemic heart disease or healthy arteries, according to a study published in the European Heart Journal on July 15, 2026. Researchers from Sapienza University of Rome, the University of Verona, and the University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli” found that 84% of heart attack patients carried these particles in their blood, compared to 40% of chronic disease patients and 32% of those with normal coronary arteries.
Evidence Linking Microplastics to Cardiovascular Events
The research, led by Professor Emanuele Barbato, analyzed blood samples from 61 patients to determine if environmental plastic particles circulate through the vessels supplying the heart. While the study does not establish that microplastics directly cause heart attacks, it highlights a strong association between these particles and cardiovascular distress. Patients who suffered heart attacks showed a wider variety of plastic types in their blood, with polyethylene—a common material in consumer packaging—being the most prevalent.
An accompanying editorial by Professor Andreas Daiber of the University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, notes that the presence of these particles is associated with elevated inflammatory markers, specifically tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6. Previous clinical evidence has identified micro and nanoplastics within atherosclerotic plaques, suggesting that these particles may trigger vascular injury through oxidative stress and inflammation.
Did you know?
Researchers found that smokers were six times more likely to have microplastics in their blood than non-smokers. Data suggests that smoking, along with air pollution exposure, may facilitate the entry of these particles into the bloodstream via the lungs.
The Role of Environmental Exposure
External factors significantly influence the burden of plastic particles within the human body. The study found that all patients who were smokers and exposed to higher levels of air pollution (specifically PM2.5 particles) tested positive for plastics in their blood. In contrast, only 12.5% of non-smokers with lower pollution exposure carried these particles.
Dr. Pasquale Paolisso, the study’s first author, emphasized that while these particles are ubiquitous in the air, water, and food supply, their presence in coronary circulation was previously poorly understood. The findings suggest that environmental policy—specifically measures to reduce air pollution and tobacco use—could play a critical role in cardiovascular health management in the future.
Future Cardiovascular Health Trends
As the scientific community continues to investigate the “exposome,” or the totality of environmental exposures, microplastics are emerging as a potential, previously underestimated cardiovascular risk factor. Professor Daiber suggests that in the era of the Anthropocene, protecting heart health will increasingly require medical professionals to look beyond traditional risk factors.
Future trends indicate a shift toward:
- Systemic Monitoring: Increased focus on detecting micro and nanoplastics in human tissues, including lung tissue, placenta, and breast milk.
- Policy Integration: Greater coordination between environmental regulators and medical institutions to treat plastic pollution as a direct health determinant.
- Inflammatory Research: Further clinical trials to determine how plastic-induced systemic inflammation contributes to acute cardiovascular events like strokes and myocardial infarctions.
Pro Tip:
While individual exposure is difficult to control, researchers suggest that reducing tobacco use and limiting exposure to high-pollution areas are currently the most effective ways to lower the risk of systemic plastic accumulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can microplastics cause a heart attack?
The study does not prove causation. However, it demonstrates a strong association between the presence of microplastics in the blood and the occurrence of heart attacks, suggesting they may contribute to systemic inflammation and vascular injury.
What types of plastics are found in the blood?
Polyethylene, which is widely used in consumer goods and packaging, was identified as the most common type of plastic particle found in the blood of the study participants.
How do these particles enter the body?
Researchers believe these particles enter the bloodstream through the lungs—likely exacerbated by smoking and air pollution—and through the consumption of contaminated water and food.
Are you concerned about the impact of environmental pollutants on your health? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on cardiovascular research and environmental health.
Related reading
