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Micro- and Nanoplastics as Emerging Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Systematic Review
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Scientists reviewing 14 studies found tiny plastic particles (microplastics and nanoplastics) showing up in people's blood, blood vessels, and artery plaques, with possible links to heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure, and blood clotting problems. However, the evidence is still weak and doesn't prove plastics actually cause these heart problems—more rigorous research is needed before we can say for sure. Bottom line: this is an early warning worth watching, not yet a confirmed health threat.
Background: Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are emerging contaminants increasingly detected in human tissues and biological fluids. Their presence in blood, vascular tissues, thrombi, and atherosclerotic plaques raises concern about their possible association with cardiovascular disease. This systematic review synthesized evidence on associations between MNPs and cardiovascular pathology. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in October 2025 in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase according to PRISMA guidelines and a PICOS-based strategy. Original human studies from the last 10 years were eligible. Fourteen studies were included. Due to methodological heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis was performed. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-E, and certainty of evidence was evaluated using a GRADE-informed approach. Results: MNPs were detected in multiple cardiovascular-related matrices. Included studies suggested possible associations with major adverse cardiovascular events, acute coronary syndrome, myocardial infarction, arterial stenosis, vascular calcification, thromboembolic disease, hypertension, inflammatory markers, coagulation-related parameters, and lipid profiles. However, the certainty of evidence was very low, and most studies had a high or very high risk of bias. Conclusions: Current evidence suggests a possible association between MNPs and cardiovascular pathology, but causality remains unproven. Larger prospective studies using standardized detection protocols, rigorous contamination control, and adjustment for confounders are needed.
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