Once again, scientists have surprised us with new findings about microplastics – and this time, they are far from reassuring. A study conducted by the American Academy of Neurology has revealed a concerning link between the presence of marine microplastics and an increased risk of disability among people living in coastal areas.
The preliminary study, which will be presented at the 77th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology in April this year, suggests that residents of coastal regions with high levels of marine microplastics face a greater risk of disabilities affecting memory, thinking, mobility, and self-care abilities compared to those living in less polluted environments.
After analyzing data from 218 coastal counties in the U.S., researchers reached alarming conclusions: in areas with the highest levels of microplastics, memory and cognitive impairments were recorded in 15.2 percent of the population, compared to 13.9 percent in areas with lower levels. Mobility-related disabilities were present in 14.1 percent of residents in highly polluted areas, compared to 12.3 percent in less polluted regions.
When it comes to self-care abilities, the average prevalence of disability was 8.5 percent in counties with the highest levels of microplastics, compared to 7.7 percent in counties with the lowest levels.
Although the study does not prove that microplastics directly cause disability, it does show a clear correlation. Scientists accounted for other factors that may affect health issues, such as air pollution, heart disease, stroke, depression, and economic conditions, yet even after these adjustments, a significant link remained between microplastic levels and disability rates.
How Do Microplastics Affect Health?
Microplastics can enter the human body through inhalation and the consumption of seafood. Studies have shown that airborne microplastics can reach the lungs, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. Additionally, research has confirmed that fish and shellfish ingest microplastics, which then enter the food chain and ultimately reach humans.
Several scientific papers suggest that microplastics can trigger inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in cells, potentially contributing to neurological disorders. Moreover, microplastics bind to toxic substances in the environment, including heavy metals and chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA), which may impact the endocrine and nervous systems. There is also evidence that microplastics can interfere with normal immune functions, increasing the risk of disease.
Nevertheless, it is encouraging that numerous scientific teams worldwide are dedicated to researching microplastics – an issue we were largely unaware of just a few years ago. Studies like this help us better understand potential health risks and work towards solutions to reduce plastic pollution. Some key measures include improving plastic waste management, banning products containing microplastics, and developing new water purification technologies.
The question remains: what other secrets does microplastic hold, and how can we protect ourselves from it? Science continues to explore its impact, while our awareness and responsible behavior can play a crucial role in preventing its further spread.
