TT Show Episode 58 - Apple Intelligence, AMD confirms RDNA 4 details, and Russia fines Google

'Breakthrough' detection of plastics in human blood for the first time

Microplastic particles have been detected in human blood samples for the first time, including PET, polystyrene, and polyethylene.

Comment IconFacebook IconX IconReddit Icon
TweakTown
Published
Updated
1 minute read time

A study the microplastics titled "Discovery and quantification of plastic particle pollution in human blood" has been published in the journal Environmental International.

'Breakthrough' detection of plastics in human blood for the first time 01

Scientists have detected microplastic particles in human blood in almost eighty percent of tested participants. They took blood samples from 22 anonymous, healthy adults, of which 17 contained plastic particles. PET plastic, which is typically used in drink bottles, was detected in half of the samples taken, and the researchers found polystyrene in a third of the participants' samples.

"Our study is the first indication that we have polymer particles in our blood, it's a breakthrough result. But we have to extend the research and increased sample sizes, the number of polymers assessed, etc. The particles are there and are transported throughout the body," said Professor Kick Vethaak of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

One-quarter of samples also contained polyethylene, which is the main material in plastic bags. Research has shown that these tiny microplastic particles can easily spread throughout the body, becoming lodged in organs and creating long-term, adverse health effects.

You can read more from the study here.

Photo of the Brita Extra Large 18 Cup Filtered Water Dispenser with Standard Filter
Best Deals: Brita Extra Large 18 Cup Filtered Water Dispenser with Standard Filter
Country flag Today 7 days ago 30 days ago
Loading... Loading...
Buy
* Prices last scanned on 12/31/1969 at 6:00 pm CST - prices may not be accurate, click links above for the latest price. We may earn an affiliate commission from any sales.
Newsletter Subscription

Join the daily TweakTown Newsletter for a special insider look into new content and what is happening behind the scenes.

Related Topics

Newsletter Subscription