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Plastic Pollution and Cancer
Summary
Researchers reviewed the mechanisms by which microplastics may contribute to cancer risk across multiple organ systems, summarizing how oxidative stress, DNA damage, and hormonal disruption drive carcinogenesis in the lungs, brain, gastrointestinal tract, and reproductive system, and surveying emerging pharmacological and immunological strategies to counter these effects.
The widespread use of plastics has revolutionized material science but also led to significant environmental concerns, particularly with the rise of microplastics (MPs). This chapter explores the emergence of MPs as an oncological risk factor. We detail the sources and types of MPs, human exposure routes, and their systemic effects on human health. Particular attention is given to their role in promoting carcinogenesis across various organs, including the lungs, brain, reproductive system, skin, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. Mechanistic insights into how MPs trigger oxidative stress, DNA damage, and hormonal disruption are discussed. The chapter also explores emerging therapeutic strategies, including pharmacological, repurposed therapies, pathway-targeted, and immunological interventions, highlighting the urgent need for interdisciplinary approaches to mitigate MPs-induced carcinogenicity.