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Article ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Tier 2 ? Original research — experimental, observational, or case-control study. Direct primary evidence. Detection Methods Environmental Sources Human Health Effects Marine & Wildlife Policy & Risk Sign in to save

Characterization of microplastic pollution in marine fauna based on the impact on human health

2023
Mark Alarco, Valeria Pacussich, Ariet Salvatierra, Hector Vega, Mario Chauca

Summary

This review paper surveys evidence that microplastics accumulate in marine organisms that people eat and discusses the potential consequences for human health, while acknowledging that direct proof of harm from dietary microplastic exposure in humans is still lacking. The authors argue that precautionary regulation of plastic use and disposal is warranted given the scale of ocean contamination and the frequency with which seafood appears on people's plates.

Study Type Environmental

In the mid-70s, the massive use of plastic in industries began, which flows into rivers and lakes and finally ends up in the ocean. In the last 6 years, studies have been carried out and the presence of microplastics has been observed in different marine species, which then end up being part of our daily diet. The objective of this article is to raise awareness about the impact of microplastics on human health. Likewise, provide possible ideas to reduce the presence of microplastics in the sea. For the methodology to follow, a study carried out in 2018 by microplastics researcher Sherri Mason was taken into account, in which a luminescent dye was used that allows plastic microparticles to be visualized. It is known that, as a result of this study, several entities came out to question this research. In conclusion, this issue is very controversial since there are still no scientific techniques that demonstrate that microplastics are harmful to human health, but health experts and directors of various NGOs affirm that due importance should be given to the implementation of standards and laws that help regulate the use and destination of plastics.

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