A recent US study revealed that cognitively normal human brain samples collected during autopsies contained significantly more microplastics than samples taken eight years earlier. These brain samples had seven to thirty times more plastic shards than kidneys and livers, with concentrations reaching 4800 micrograms per gram, or 0.48% by weight. This increase is approximately 50% compared to 2016, suggesting that current brains comprise 99.5% brain tissue and 0.5% plastic.
Researchers also found that dementia patients exhibited three to five times more plastic fragments in their brains compared to healthy individuals. These fragments were concentrated in arterial walls and neuroimmune cells. While the presence of microplastics is concerning, experts caution against assuming a direct link between plastics and dementia, noting that disease conditions may affect plastic accumulation.
The study highlights a broader concern as plastic production has surged in recent years, correlating with increased exposure and accumulation in the human body. Experts stress the need for further investigation into the health impacts of microplastics, particularly their potential role as carriers of harmful chemicals. While the FDA asserts current evidence doesn’t suggest health risks from microplastics in food, researchers advocate for continued exploration into the effects of these particles on human tissues and overall well-being. Reducing plastic exposure, especially from single-use items, is advised, although experts acknowledge complete avoidance is impractical.