Plastic pollution isn’t just an ocean problem either – it’s a lot closer to home than you might think. Recent research has revealed that the average person’s brain can contain a whopping equivalent of microplastics.
The New York Times went into an in-depth article on the heels of that study making the rounds in February, showing that scientists are starting to rip our faces off.
What’s going on?
In a groundbreaking study led by researchers at the University of New Mexico, scientists found that brain samples from 2024 contain 50% more microplastics than those from eight years ago. The average brain is held by about seven grams of plastic – the same as a disposable spoon.
More in relation to now, researchers see high levels of microplastics in the sports of people with dementia, but as treated by labs ” Similar plastic particles have already been found in human placenta, blood, and the first chair of the child.
Like a plastic balloon in nature, it reflects this growth in our bodies. “This thing is increasing in our land exponentially,” alticologist Dr. Math Campen told the New York Times.
Why is this found in relation to?
Once inside the human body, some of the tiny particles are so small they can pass through sensitive tissues and lodge in organs such as the brain. While scientists have never nailed down how much plastic is too much, the initial findings of the study suggest nothing short of dangerous.
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Cue a desperate sigh.
“I don’t think I’ve talked to one person who’s said: ‘Sweet! You LOVE LOVE that there’s all that plastic in my brain,'” Dr. Campen told The Times.
Current research shows links between microplastics and serious health problems, including cognitive decline, self-esteem concerns, immune system deficiencies, immune system disorders, hormonal disorders, and developmental problems in children. And because most of this plastic pollution is decades old, it’s not just a future problem – It’s already here.
Additionally, because microplastics end up in soil, water, and pollute the environment, they threaten not only humans, but the wildlife systems we rely on. In short, this is not just a medical concern – it’s a social and environmental challenge with major global impact.
What is being done about it?
The Times’ deep dive, with many very interesting details, noted that Dr. Campden’s group continues to continue research on the small brain to find out that certain regions have a higher concentration and whether that can be linked to problems such as Parkinson’s or Memory Loss. “
While researchers continue to investigate the health effects of microplastics, efforts are already underway to tackle the problem across multiple borders. Countries like France, England, and India have introduced bans on common single-use plastics, while cities including Los Angeles and New York are reducing things like Styrofoam and plastic.
From a scientific perspective, researchers are developing new biodegradable materials and testing new ways to filter microplastics from water.
At each level, practicing habits such as exchanging disposable spoons for other uses, avoiding microwaving food in plastic containers, and using microwave-resistant bags all go a long way.
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