Plastic pollution is a growing problem and we still don’t know how to deal with it. Moreover, we do not know how its accumulation in the body affects our health. Considering how easily microscopic particles penetrate body tissues, it is vital to know exactly what risks they may pose.

Where was microplastic found?

A small study conducted in Italy found Pieces of microplastic found in plaques in blocked arteries. These fatty deposits were surgically removed from patients who had surgery to open blocked arteries and then examined under high magnification. Interestingly, this event took place three years ago, but was only reported on March 7, 2024.

The team behind this new study examined the risk of stroke and heart attack in patients with and without microplastics in their plaques. Researchers who followed 257 patients for 34 months found that almost 60% of patients had detectable amounts of polyethylene in plaques removed from fat-thickened arteries, while 12% had polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in removed fatty deposits.

PVC is available in both rigid and flexible forms and is used to make water pipes, plastic bottles, flooring and packaging. Polyethylene is the most common plastic from which plastic bags, films and bottles are made.

Because Microplastics have previously been detected in people’s bloodstreamsResearchers are rightfully concerned about heart health. Laboratory studies show that microplastics can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in heart cells, as well as impair heart function, alter heart rate, and cause scarring in animals such as mice.

Observational data from occupational exposure studies indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in individuals exposed to plastic-related pollution, including polyvinyl chloride, compared with the general population.
– scientists write.

The amount of microplastics and even smaller particles called nanoplastics has been measured using a variety of cutting-edge methods. It can also be seen under powerful microscopes. Researchers observed pieces of plastic with jagged edges inside immune cells called macrophages and fatty plaques. Examining tissue samples, the team also found higher levels of inflammatory markers in patients with microplastics in the plaques.

However, it should be noted that such a limited study cannot definitively conclude that microplastics cause negative effects on the heart, only that there is a connection between them. In the study Other risk factors for cardiovascular disease were not taken into accountSuch as smoking, insufficient physical activity and air pollution.