For the first time, microparticles were found in human blood

The Guardian (UK) reported that for the first time, scientists detected microplastics in human blood, with the rate of nearly 80% of volunteers participating in the test.

After analyzing blood samples from 22 healthy adults, they found microplastics in the blood of 17 of them. Specifically, half of the blood sample contained PET plastic, which is commonly used as a water bottle. Meanwhile, one-third of blood samples contained polystyrene plastic, which is often used as food packaging. 1/4 of the sample contained polyethylene used to make plastic bags.

The discovery shows that tiny plastic particles can travel with the bloodstream and save body parts. How they affect health is still unknown. However, researchers are concerned about this problem based on laboratory observations showing that microplastics have an adverse effect on human cells.

“Our study is the first indication that humans have polymer particles in their blood. It’s a groundbreaking discovery,” said Professor Dick Vethaak, a researcher at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in the Netherlands. According to him, the problem of plastic particles “roaming” all over the body is completely worrying.

In addition, Professor Vethaak said the significant difference in the amount and type of plastic between the blood samples could reflect an object the participant was exposed to before taking the blood sample, such as a drink from a cup. plastic or wear a plastic mask.

The study, just published in the journal Enviroment International, used existing technology to detect and analyze particles as small as 0.0007 mm. Some blood samples contain up to 2 or 3 types of resin. During sampling, the expert team used steel needles and glass tubes to avoid contamination.

Every year, humans release huge amounts of plastic waste into the environment and microplastics are polluting the entire planet, from the summit of Mount Everest to the deepest oceans. Humans have ingested these tiny particles through food and water, as well as inhaling them. They are also found in the feces of infants and adults.

A recent independent study found that microplastics can adhere to the outer membranes of red blood cells, limiting their ability to carry oxygen. These microscopic particles have also been found in the placentas of pregnant women and pregnant rats. They then quickly pass through the lungs into the heart, brain, and other parts of the fetus.