Health fears as microplastics found in humans

Microplastics have been found in humans for the first time leading to fears they could be causing a raft of health and fertility problems.

Although previous studies have calculated that Europeans could ingest as many as 11,000 tiny pieces of plastic a year, through consuming seafood or accidentally eating bits of packaging, it has never been proven until now.

Scientists at the Austrian Environment Agency and the University of Vienna analysed stool samples of people from eight countries and found every one contained microplastics.

In some cases nine different types of plastic were found in a single sample. On average, 20 microplastic particles per 10g of human waste were found.

‘‘This is the first study of its kind and confirms . . . that plastics ultimately reach the human gut’’ said Dr Philipp Schwabl, the lead researcher who presented the findings at the United European Gastroenterology meeting. ‘‘While the highest plastic concentrations in animal studies have been found in the gut, the smallest microplastic particles are capable of entering the bloodstream, lymphatic system and may even reach the liver. We need further research to understand what this means for human health.’’ Microplastics are particles of plastic less than 5mm and are used in various products. They also form when large pieces break down through weathering, degradation or wear and tear.

– Telegraph Group