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Microplastics and Human Health: An Emerging Concern in Aquatic and Terrestrial Environments
Summary
This review examines the growing body of evidence on microplastic contamination in aquatic and terrestrial environments and its potential impacts on human health, synthesizing findings from laboratory experiments and animal studies. Evidence suggests microplastics can cause digestive problems, nutrient deficiencies, exposure to leached chemicals, and may harbor pathogenic bacteria, though long-term health risks in humans require further investigation.
Introduction: Microplastics in aquatic and terrestrial environments have become an increasing concern in the past several years because of their potential impact on human health. Microplastics are small particles of plastic, under 5mm in size, that are often found in products such as personal care products (microbeads); textiles (microfibers); plastic packaging; etc. These microplastics may persist in the environment and be consumed by organisms low on the food chain and humans high on it.Methods: Microplastic exposure on human health has been investigated extensively by scientists, both in water and on land. That includes researching the sources and distribution of microplastics and their impacts on human health. Laboratory experiments have also been better carried out to understand the possible health hazards of microplastic exposure.Results: There is also growing evidence from animal studies that microplastics can be harmful to human health. Microplastics are also linked to various health issues, including digestive problems, nutrient deficiency, and exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals that leach from the plastics. In addition to that, microplastics have also been shown to harbor bacteria and other pathogens that could contribute to additional population health problems.Conclusions: Microplastics pollution is an emerging threat to human health within aquatic and terrestrial environments. More research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and long-term effects of microplastics on human health. Microplastics pose a risk to human health, the ecosystem as a whole, and human health, and preventative measures need be implemented in order to decrease the generation and dispersion of microplastics into the environment.
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