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A systematic review of the effects of airborne microplastic contamination on human lungs
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This systematic review summarizes research showing that airborne microplastics have a negative effect on human lungs. Humans are estimated to inhale roughly 100,000 fine plastic particles every day, and the evidence suggests this exposure contributes to respiratory health problems, underscoring the need for policies to reduce plastic pollution in the air we breathe.
Microplastics are the result of degradation of plastic waste in nature and contain various toxicological effects. It is estimated that humans inhale around 100,000 fine particles of plastic every day. The aim of this research is to determine whether exposure to microplastics in the air has an impact on human lungs. Data search in this study used four electronic databases, namely Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, and PubMed. 15 articles were included for analysis in this systematic review following a screening process of titles, abstract, and full texts that was based on clearly defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Risk assessment to reduce data bias using the JBI Critical Appraisal Tool. Our findings from this systematic review show that airborne microplastic contamination has a negative effect on human lungs. It is recommended that government policies should be formed regarding the use of plastics so as to reduce airborne contamination.
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