Microplastics Studies on Heightened Cardiovascular Risk and iMPs

Cardiovascular Risk

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine on March 7, 2024, found a link between microplastics in arterial plaque and an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or death.

Dr. Raffaele Marfella's team at the University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli found polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) particles in over half of surgically removed arterial plaques. Patients with microplastics or nanoplastics in their plaques were approximately 4.5 times more likely to experience a cardiovascular event or death over a 34-month follow-up. Increased inflammation was also observed in plaques containing microplastics.

This study is the first to demonstrate a direct effect on human health, suggesting plastic pollution as a new cardiovascular risk factor. Further research is needed to confirm causality, but evidence suggests particles may drive inflammation.

Inhalable Microplastics (iMPs)

A study by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata revealed high levels of iMPs in the urban air of Indian cities.

Kolkata recorded the highest average concentration at 14.23 µg/m³, followed by Delhi at 14.18 µg/m³. Chennai and Mumbai had 4 µg/m³ and 2.65 µg/m³, respectively. An average Kolkata resident is estimated to inhale 2.9 grams of microplastics over a lifetime.

These iMPs (smaller than 10 micrometers) can penetrate deep into the lungs, enter the bloodstream, and reach vital organs, acting as "Trojan Horses" carrying pathogens, toxic chemicals (phthalates), heavy metals (lead, arsenic, chromium), and antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi. Primary sources include polyester fibers from clothing, packaging waste, vehicle wear, and footwear. Microplastics constitute up to 5% of PM10 and 2.5% of PM2.5 in India's metropolitan markets.

Recommendations include reducing single-use plastics, opting for cotton clothing, improving waste segregation, and promoting greener urban spaces.

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