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Public awareness, knowledge gaps, and health anxiety concerning microplastics in human blood: a cross-sectional survey of Indian adults
Summary
A new study of 1,200 Indian adults found that while 75% knew about tiny plastic particles (microplastics) in human blood, only 28% understood how they actually get into our bodies and just 25% knew what health problems they might cause. People who got their information from social media had higher anxiety about microplastics and were more likely to believe incorrect information, like thinking these particles directly cause cancer. This shows we need better science communication to help people understand the real risks without unnecessary worry.
Background The detection of microplastics (MPs) in human blood has sparked global concern, yet public understanding and associated anxiety in high-exposure regions like India remain underexplored. Methods This cross-sectional survey (September 2023–March 2025) involved 1,200 Indian adults using stratified sampling across age, gender, education, income, and urban/rural residence. A validated 30-item questionnaire assessed awareness sources, knowledge accuracy, and MP-specific anxiety (adapted GAD-7). Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression in R (v4.3.1). Results 75% of participants were aware of MPs in blood (primarily via social media, 58%), but only 28% correctly identified ingestion as the main pathway and 25% understood realistic health implications (e.g., inflammation, potential coagulation effects). Mean anxiety score was 7.8 ± 3.2 (mild–moderate), with higher levels among social media users (OR = 1.7, p < 0.001) and those with low health literacy (OR = 2.3, p < 0.001). Younger adults (18–35 years) showed highest awareness (82%) but also misinformation (e.g., 45% linking MPs directly to cancer). Conclusion Significant gaps persist between awareness and evidence-based knowledge, fueling unnecessary anxiety. Targeted media literacy and public health campaigns are essential in India and similar settings.
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