Exposure of Microplastics by Ingestions through Fish among People Residing Along the Mun River in a Two Setting Area of Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand

HistoryThai fish contain microplastics (MPs), but data on fish microplastic exposure is insufficient.This study examined MP in fish from the Mun River and the level of MP exposure from fish consumption in rural and urban areas of Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand.Thirty-six fish samples, including the species Paralaubuca typus, Phalacronotus bleekeri, and Morulius chrysophekaion, from both rural and urban stations along the Mun River were collected.The questionnaire assessed microplastic exposure among 310 rural and urban residents along the Mun River in Ubon Ratchathani Province.The fish samples were analyzed in the College of Medicine and Public Health Laboratory at Ubon Ratchathani University.Microplastics in the samples were counted using a stereomicroscope.The analysis revealed that 73.61% of the fish from the urban station were contaminated with microplastics, with an average abundance of 26.50±4.217particles per fish .In comparison, 26.39% of the fish from the rural station were found to have microplastics, with an average abundance of 9.50±3.51particles per fish.The exposure to microplastics from fish consumption does not differ significantly between people living in rural and urban area.Conversely, urban residents experienced a higher level of microplastic exposure compared to their rural counterparts.Therefore, government agencies such as the municipality, the Ministry of Public Health, and the Department of Natural Resources and Environment must work cooperatively to prevent and resolve these issues.We suggest comprehensively investigating the categorization, dimensions, and hazards associated with microplastics in each category within this area.