Science

Scientists find microplastics present in human blood for the first time

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A new study from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in the Netherlands has found microplastics present in human blood for the first time, indicating the tiny particles can travel around the body and lodge in organs, causing potential health hazards.

Scientists conducted the study by analyzing the blood of 22 anonymous healthy adult donors. They found microplastics in 17 of the samples. Most of the plastics found appeared to come from single use items, like drink cups, styrofoam food containers, and plastic grocery bags.

The researchers say the results of the study mean more research into how harmful microplastics can be to the body is urgently needed.

“Our study is the first indication that we have polymer particles in our blood – ​it’s a breakthrough result,” said Prof Dick Vethaak, an ecotoxicologist at Vrije. “But we have to extend the research and increase the sample sizes, the number of polymers assessed, etc.”

Scientists already know microplastics can enter the body via breathing them in, as well as consuming them in food and drinks. “It is certainly reasonable to be concerned,” Vethaak said. “The particles are there and are transported throughout the body.”

ARTICLE: LAURA SPIVAK

MANAGING EDITOR: CARSON CHOATE

PHOTO CREDITS: PHYS.ORG

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Laura Spivak

Laura is a freelance writer out of Maryland and a mom of three. Her background is in political science and international relations, and she has been doing political writing and editing for 17 years. Laura has also written parenting pieces for the Today Show and is currently working on writing a collection of remarkable true stories about normal people. She writes for FBA because unbiased news is vital to unity, and readers deserve the facts free of opinion.

Laura is a freelance writer out of Maryland and a mom of three. Her background is in political science and international relations, and she has been doing political writing and editing for 17 years. Laura has also written parenting pieces for the Today Show and is currently working on writing a collection of remarkable true stories about normal people. She writes for FBA because unbiased news is vital to unity, and readers deserve the facts free of opinion.

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