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Micro- and Nanoplastics as a Potential Risk Factor for Stroke: A Systematic Review
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This systematic review assessed the potential link between micro- and nanoplastics and stroke risk. It found that plastic particles have been detected in human blood vessels and arterial plaques, and may contribute to inflammation and blood vessel damage — factors that could increase the risk of stroke.
Environmental pollution with micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) is an escalating global health concern. Despite growing evidence of MNPs' presence in the human body, their impact on cerebrovascular diseases remains poorly understood. This study aimed to systematically assess the presence of MNPs in the vascular system and their association with the risk and progression of stroke. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251272759). PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched for original research articles published in the last 10 years. Five studies were included (2 human observational, 3 animal in vivo), comprising 287 patients and rodent models. Methodological quality was assessed using ROBINS-E and SYRCLE's RoB tools. The analysis confirmed the presence of MNPs, particularly polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride, in key human pathological structures, including carotid atherosclerotic plaques and stroke thrombi. Notably, the presence of MNPs in plaques was associated with a 4.5-fold increase in the risk of major cardiovascular events and death. Animal model studies provided a biological rationale for these observations, demonstrating that MNP exposure may lead to microembolization in cerebral circulation, blood-brain barrier disruption, and exacerbated ischemic injury. Importantly, MNP burden may reflect cumulative environmental exposure and vascular disease severity rather than a direct causal factor in stroke pathogenesis. Nevertheless, MNPs may still represent a novel, modifiable risk factor for stroke through their association with adverse vascular outcomes. Available evidence confirms their accumulation in the cardiovascular system and suggests an association with adverse clinical outcomes. Due to the limited number of studies, further standardized research on larger populations is required to establish whether a causal relationship exists.
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Abstract TP089: Micro and Nano plastics in Cerebrovascular Health: A systematic Review of Current Evidence and Research Directions
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This systematic review examines emerging evidence linking micro- and nanoplastics to cerebrovascular health problems. Studies found plastic particles in human brain blood vessels and arterial plaques, with evidence suggesting they may promote inflammation and oxidative stress that could contribute to stroke risk.
Nanoplastics and Microplastics and Their Link to Increasing Stroke Risk
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Tiny plastic particles from everyday items like packaging and synthetic fabrics may be getting into our bodies and could be linked to a higher risk of stroke. This research looks at how these microscopic plastic bits might affect our blood vessels and brain health, adding to growing concerns about plastic pollution's impact on our bodies. While more research is needed to fully understand this connection, it's a good reminder to think about reducing plastic exposure where possible, like using less plastic packaging and filtering drinking water.
Micro- and nanoplastics in the cardiovascular system: current evidence, research gaps: a systematic review
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This systematic review examined how microplastics and nanoplastics affect the heart and blood vessels. Studies in both animals and human tissue found that these particles can cause blood vessel inflammation, disrupt heart function, and were even linked to higher rates of heart attack and stroke in people with plastic particles in their arteries.
Microplastics and Nanoplastics as a Novel Cardiovascular Risk Factor: A Narrative Review
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This review summarizes research on tiny plastic particles found in human blood vessels, heart tissue, and blood clots. One study found plaques containing these particles were linked to a higher rate of heart attacks, strokes, and death, and lab studies suggest possible links to inflammation and cell damage.
Evidence, Mechanisms, and Clinical Implications of Microplastics and Nanoplastics As Emerging Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Narrative Review
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This review examines growing evidence that micro- and nanoplastics may contribute to cardiovascular health risks, with researchers having found these particles in human artery plaques and blood clots. Evidence indicates that the particles can enter the bloodstream, trigger inflammation, damage blood vessel walls, and potentially increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. While the evidence is not yet conclusive, the study highlights an emerging area of concern that warrants further investigation into how everyday plastic exposure may affect heart and blood vessel health.
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