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Presence of microplastics in human stomachs
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In the first study to confirm microplastics in human stomachs, researchers found plastic particles in all 26 cadavers examined, averaging about 9 particles per person with fibers being the most common type. The estimated daily intake was about 32 particles per day, providing direct evidence that microplastics are routinely present in the human digestive system.
This study presents the first definitive confirmation of microplastic presence in the human stomach, based on samples from 26 cadavers. 97 microplastic particles were extracted from stomach contents, across all 26 individuals, revealing a universal prevalence of microplastics in the cadavers. Morphological analysis of the extracted particles unveiled distinct shapes, with fibers constituting the majority (52.04 %), followed by fragments (39.80 %) and films (8.16 %). The average quantity of microplastics per individual was calculated to be 9.4 ± 10.4 particles, with an estimated daily intake of microplastics at 32.2 particles per day. These figures are lower than estimates derived from both daily microplastic consumption alone and notably, those calculated from stool analyses. Our study also suggests that the breakdown or transformation of microplastics cannot be ruled out during their passage through the digestive tract. Although the number of microplastics in stomach contents reported in this study was even lower than the daily microplastic intake rates reported in the literature, it provides conclusive evidence for the presence of microplastics in the human stomach and provides important preliminary data in terms of the risks that may arise for human health.
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Detection and Analysis of Microplastics in Human Sputum
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Researchers analyzed sputum (mucus from the lungs) from 22 patients with respiratory diseases and found microplastics in every single sample, identifying 21 different plastic types. Polyurethane was the most common type detected, and most particles were smaller than 500 micrometers. This study provides direct evidence that humans are inhaling microplastics, with factors like smoking and medical procedures increasing the amount found in the respiratory tract.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.