Vantage | How do microplastics end up in the arteries of people?

Microscopic plastics are tiny polymer fragments, about a thousandth the width of a human hair. They are everywhere, from clothes to water, and they are entering our bodies. They are so small that they can invade our cells and enter human blood vessels as well.

A new study says this is alarming. People with microplastics in their arteries are twice as likely to have a heart attack or stroke and are more prone to early death.

There is not enough research to know the extent of harm microplastics can do. So far, we know that these particles interrupt cellular processes. They release harmful chemicals, and they can impede organ function. But such instances are rare.

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Secondly, it is going to be challenging, if not impossible, to reduce our exposure to microplastics.

According to a study, one litre of bottled water has 240,000 plastic particles. Even if one avoids boiled water, can one avoid the air he or she breathes?

However, small measures can help, like thoroughly washing vegetables, reducing plastic use. Switching to natural fibres like cotton can help. As plastic is everywhere, it is impossible to eliminate the risk, but we can take precautions and hope for the best.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views.