A groundbreaking study published in the esteemed journal Environmental Science and Technology has revealed an alarming finding: microplastics have been discovered in the hearts of human patients who underwent cardiac surgery. Yes, you read that right. Microplastics, those tiny pieces of plastic measuring less than five millimeters, have made their way into one of the most vital organs in the human body. This discovery raises concerns about the potential health risks associated with microplastic exposure. So, if you were hoping to avoid having your body filled with pieces of plastic, you’re not alone.
Conducted by a team from Capital Medical University, the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Peking Union Medical College in Beijing, China, this study utilized advanced technologies, including laser direct infrared chemical imaging and scanning electron microscopy, to examine tissue samples collected from 15 cardiac surgery patients. The researchers focused on various regions, such as the pericardium, fat tissue, heart muscle, and left atrial appendages. Their meticulous analysis revealed the presence of nine different types of microplastics in five different types of tissue. The largest microplastic piece measured a diameter of 469 μm.
However, the startling findings didn’t end there. The researchers also discovered these noxious microplastics in blood samples taken before and after the surgery. It is evident that these microplastics weren’t solely introduced during the surgical procedure. This is supported by the presence of poly(methyl methacrylate), a substance commonly found in plexiglass, in the heart tissue. Clearly, surgeons were not implanting plexiglass into patients’ hearts.
This study sheds light on a broader issue: our pervasive plastic pollution problem. It’s not just the oceans and rivers that are polluted with plastic; microplastics have infiltrated our daily lives. Even seemingly innocent items like clothing can contain plastic fibers that are shed throughout the day, finding their way into every nook and cranny, including the water we drink and the food we eat. These minuscule particles can accumulate in various parts of our environment, ultimately infiltrating our bodies through the openings and orifices we commonly use for consumption. Previous studies have detected microplastics in human stool, lungs, and placentas, indicating how extensively these particles can travel within our bodies.
Volunteers from the NGO ‘Canarias Libre de Plasticos’ (Canary Islands Free of Plastics) made a concerted effort to remove microplastics and mesoplastic debris from Almaciga Beach in Tenerife. (Photo: DESIREE MARTIN/AFP via Getty Images)
As the world argues over unfounded conspiracies, such as microchips in vaccines, we are ignoring the silent and insidious invasion of our bodies by microplastics. While extensive research is needed to fully comprehend the health implications of microplastic exposure, alarming findings have already emerged. For instance, a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science revealed that microplastics can disrupt oyster reproduction. This is concerning news for oysters, and it prompts us to question whether similar effects may occur in humans.
Moreover, a study covered by Forbes in 2019 found that exposure to plastic particles from teabags affected the behavior and development of Daphnia magna, tiny crustaceans commonly known as water fleas. Although the direct relevance to humans is uncertain, these studies bring to light the potential risks posed by our plastic-infested environment.
In conclusion, the prevalence of microplastics in our hearts underscores the urgent need to address the larger issue of plastic pollution. It has permeated every ecosystem, and its long-term health impacts should not be underestimated.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
