hould we worry about microplastics being a risk to our health? Here’s what you need to know

People are inhaling microparticles that linger in the air, say researchers in a recent study.

Findings from the University of Hull in England indicate that evidence of microplastics has been found in almost all people tested.

Last month, similar microscopic particles were found in human blood, implying the particles can travel around the body and potentially lodge in organs.

It follows an earlier discovery in babies – who, according to a recent study, have 15 times more particles in their bodies compared to adults.

Microplastics’ ability to penetrate our bodies is made even more worrying by scientists’ findings that the material provide a comfortable environment for bacteria with high antibiotic resistanceto thrive in.

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are small pieces of plastic, often about the same size as sesame seed, and approximately five millimetres long. They are a result of plastic pollution, and are present in a variety of products, from synthetic clothing to plastic bottles.

They consist of carbon and hydrogen atoms bound together, and often contain chemicals such as phthalates and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs).

These chemicals leach out of the plastics after entering the environment.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.euronews.com/green/2022/04/07/should-we-worry-about-microplastics-being-a-risk-to-our-health-here-s-what-you-need-to-kno