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Microplastics as a Threat to Aquatic Ecosystems and Human Health
Summary
This review examines how microplastics threaten both aquatic ecosystems and human health, noting that these particles accumulate contaminants like heavy metals and pesticides that magnify their harmful effects. Microplastics enter human bodies primarily through contaminated water and seafood, and while the full health consequences remain unclear, early evidence links exposure to inflammation, oxidative stress, and disrupted hormone function.
The threat posed by microplastics has become one of the world's most serious problems. Recent reports indicate that the presence of microplastics has been documented not only in coastal areas and beaches, but also in water reservoirs, from which they enter the bodies of aquatic animals and humans. Microplastics can also bioaccumulate contaminants that lead to serious damage to aquatic ecosystems. The lack of comprehensive data makes it challenging to ascertain the potential consequences of acute and chronic exposure, particularly for future generations. It is crucial to acknowledge that there is still a substantial need for rapid and effective techniques to identify microplastic particles for precise evaluation. Additionally, implementing legal regulations, limiting plastic production, and developing biodegradation methods are promising solutions, the implementation of which could limit the spread of toxic microplastics.