Sunday, July 13th 2025, 12:34 pm
Microplastics, which are tiny particles shed from everyday plastics, are turning up in the human body, and researchers say they may be doing more harm than previously believed.
According to the World Economic Forum, microplastics are now found across land, sea, air, and increasingly in human organs. Scientists estimate that the average person consumes thousands of these plastic particles every year.
New research cited by Duke University warns that the global appetite for disposable products is a major driver. Every hour, the world discards 5.7 million toothpaste tubes, 570,000 cell phones, and 2.3 million pairs of sneakers. Each one of these items contributes to the planet's growing microplastic load.
A separate study from Boston University has raised additional concerns. Researchers found that bacteria exposed to microplastics developed resistance to multiple antibiotics. The plastics provide surfaces for bacteria to cling to, creating new platforms for infection.
Scientists say microplastics can affect nearly every major system in the human body. Health risks include:
Experts say reducing your risk starts with smarter daily choices. Here's what to avoid:
July 13th, 2025
July 13th, 2025
July 13th, 2025