There are tiny plastic particles present in the water, air and even in the food we eat today. We can’t see them because they are microscopic. These microplastics are less than 5 millimetres in size, resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic debris or manufactured intentionally for products like cosmetics and clothing. Their small size allows them to be ingested by marine life, enter the food chain, and ultimately accumulate in human bodies

Microplastics contain chemical additives that can bind environmental toxins, which means they can be present in water and soil. About 65 million microplastic particles are released into water daily after being treated at a sewage treatment plant as per 2025 report presented by the AJMC. Consequently, microplastics have the potential for long-term ecosystem disruption, with their movement through the environment and food chain increasing the risk of human exposure.

Recent research has highlighted the severity of microplastic pollution. A 2023 study published in Nature Medicine confirms the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters, while nanoplastics are even tinier, typically less than 100 nanometers. Due to their smaller size, nanoplastics can more easily penetrate cells and tissues) in human organs, including the brain, liver, and kidneys. Notably, higher concentrations of polyethene fragments were found in brain tissues, particularly among individuals with dementia. 

The same study by Natural Medicine found that the brain has 7 to 30 times higher concentrations of microplastics and nanoplastics compared to other organs. A greater concentration of microplastics (up to 10 times) was found in participants with dementia.

These findings highlight the urgent need to understand how microplastics enter the body and their potential impact on human health.

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Impact of Microplastics on Human Health

Impacts Cardiovascular Health

A 2024 study published by the New England Journal of Medicine reported that nearly 60 per cent of about 250 people who were undergoing heart surgery had micro or nanoplastics in one of their main arteries. Those who had microplastics or nanoplastics, which were 4.5 times more likely to experience a heart attack, a stroke or death in the three years after the surgery as compared to those who didn’t have micro or nanoplastics in their arteries.

This shows exactly how microplastics and nanoplastics can accumulate in critical areas of the cardiovascular system, potentially contributing to serious health outcomes. Their presence in major arteries may trigger inflammation and vascular damage. All of these are known risk factors for cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

Causes Oxidative Stress

Microplastics have been shown to cause oxidative stress, DNA damage, and inflammation at the cellular level, potentially contributing to chronic diseases as per the 2025 research by the AJMC. The study continues to highlight the pervasive presence of microplastics in the environment and their increasing detection within the human body

This oxidative stress occurs when microplastics generate an excess of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells, overwhelming the body’s natural antioxidant defences. Prolonged oxidative stress can impair cellular function, damage vital biomolecules like lipids and proteins, and accelerate the ageing process. Over time, such cellular disruption has been linked to the development of chronic conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders

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Disrupt Respiratory Function

Inhalation of airborne microplastics can lead to respiratory issues. A 2023 study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that inhaling these particles is likely linked to decreased lung function and other respiratory problems, as well as fatigue and dizziness due to low blood oxygen concentration. Microplastics can cause oxidative stress in the airways and lungs, leading to inflammation and damage. Additionally, nano-sized plastics have been associated with mitochondrial damage in human respiratory cells, increasing the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Long-term exposure to airborne microplastics is especially concerning for individuals living in urban or industrial areas, where plastic pollution is more concentrated. A 2024 study by the University of Technology Sydney suggests that these particles can bypass the body’s natural respiratory defences, accumulate deep in the lungs, and potentially enter the bloodstream. This not only increases the risk of respiratory illnesses like asthma and COPD but may also contribute to systemic health issues. As indoor air pollution from synthetic fibres and plastic-based materials rises, the need for better air filtration and pollution control becomes increasingly urgent.

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Interfere with Endocrine and Reproductive Health

Microplastics often contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. These substances can interfere with hormonal functions, affecting the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, and reproductive organs. A 2023 review in Frontiers in Endocrinology reported that microplastics and nanoplastics have deleterious impacts on mammalian endocrine components, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues.

A 2025 study by Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety has also detected microplastics in human reproductive fluids, such as ovarian follicular fluid and semen, raising concerns about their direct impact on fertility. These particles can impair gamete quality, hormone production, and embryonic development. For instance, animal studies have shown that exposure to microplastics can reduce sperm count and disrupt menstrual cycles, suggesting similar risks may exist for humans. As microplastic contamination becomes more widespread, its potential role in declining fertility rates warrants urgent attention.

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Alter the Immune System   

A 2024 study by the Journal of Translational Medicine shows that when microplastics (MPs) enter the body and circulate through the bloodstream, the immune system tries to eliminate them using innate responses like phagocytosis and pattern recognition. However, due to their small size and resistance to breakdown, MPs can persist in immune cells and disrupt their function. They also trigger the release of inflammatory molecules and can alter the gut microbiome, further activating immune responses. Over time, this chronic inflammation may contribute to cancer development, making MPs potential catalysts for tumor progression.

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How Microplastics Enter the Body

Microplastics and nanoplastics are everywhere. Humans are commonly exposed to microplastics in every phase of life: orally, through inhalation, and skin contact as per a 2025 research published by the AJMC. The study mentions that oral intake is considered the main exposure route, with microplastics present in drinking water, food containers, rubber baby teats, and food itself, especially seafood. From food consumption alone, the intake of plastic particles in the human body ranges between 39,000 and 52,000 particles per person per year.

Not only this, but from the clothes we wear to the skin care we use, to the polluted soil and air we touch. Also, plastic becomes even more toxic when heated; the more agitated the molecules become, the more they shed, according to a 2023 study published by Environmental Science & Technology. So, avoid heating food in plastics when using a microwave, even if the plastic is from as good a brand as Tupperware. Although microplastics are typically considered not to pass through the skin barrier, they can still increase exposure risk by depositing on the skin as mentioned in the 2024 study published by Environmental International. For example, the use of consumer products containing microplastics, like face cream and facial cleanser, will increase the exposure risk of PE. Also, protective mobile phone cases can generate microplastics during use, which are transferred to human hands. During the dermal exposure to microplastics, some typical plastic additives may be absorbed.

The largest source of microplastics (84 per cent ) in the atmosphere is roads. When considering both oral intake and inhalation, annual microplastic consumption ranges from 74,000 to 121,000 particles. Microplastics are transported throughout the body through blood circulation, as per the AJMC 2025 report.

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5 Ways to Reduce Exposure To Microplastics

Choose Natural Fibres

Clothing is the largest contributor to primary microplastics, accounting for around 35 per cent of the total. This impacts everyone as about 70 per cent of textiles are made from plastic, which can be absorbed by our skin during wear, as per the International Union for Conservation of Nature. These plastic-based fabrics also shed the most microplastics during washing.

Even eco-conscious apparel isn't immune to microplastics. Clothing made from recycled plastic may benefit the planet, but it can pose more risks to our health. Research shows that recycled polyester releases more microplastics than virgin polyester because the fibres are rougher and more prone to shedding. This issue is amplified in workout clothes, which are typically made from synthetic or recycled materials. Sweating during exercise may increase the chances of these particles being absorbed through the skin.

Choose clothing made from natural fibres like cotton, linen, wool, hemp, silk, or jute whenever possible, even if it’s not 100 per cent natural. Also, let synthetic or recycled fabrics air dry instead of using the dryer, which can increase shedding.

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Buy Organic Produce

Organic farms avoid many synthetic inputs, including fertilisers, pesticides, and herbicides that are often stored, applied, or delivered using plastic materials. This cuts down on plastic use throughout the farming process, reducing microplastic shedding into the environment.

Eating locally grown and seasonal food is one of the most effective ways to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and even microplastics that can enter the food chain through packaging, processing, and long-distance transportation. Locally sourced produce typically requires minimal handling and preservation, meaning it's less likely to be wrapped in plastic or stored in chemical-laden containers that can shed microplastic particles. In contrast, imported or out-of-season produce often travels thousands of miles, necessitating refrigeration, plastic packaging, and chemical treatments to extend shelf life, all of which increase the risk of contamination.

Seasonal, local food is not only fresher and more nutrient-dense, but also has a lower chemical and plastic footprint. When food is harvested at its natural peak and sold close to the source, there's less need for synthetic coatings, waxes, or gas treatments that are commonly used to keep produce looking fresh during long transport.

Reduce Single-Use Plastics

Avoiding single-use plastics such as plastic bags, water bottles, straws, and packaging. It is one of the simplest and most effective ways to lower your microplastic exposure. These items break down into microplastics over time, polluting water, air, and soil. Switching to reusable options made from stainless steel, glass, or cloth not only reduces your personal plastic footprint but also cuts down on the broader environmental load.

Get a HEPA Air Purifier

Indoor air can be a significant source of microplastic exposure, especially from synthetic textiles, upholstery, and household dust. Installing a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifier helps capture airborne microplastics and other fine particles before they are inhaled. Just make sure to choose an air purifier that is proven to remove up to 99.97 per cent of airborne particles as small as 0.3 μm, including a significant amount of airborne microplastics, as mentioned in the Science of Natural Environment. Pair this with regular dusting and vacuuming using HEPA-filtered vacuums to create a cleaner, healthier indoor environment.

Get an NSF-Certified Water Filter

Switching from bottled water to tap water can significantly reduce your daily exposure to microplastics, as studies have shown that bottled water often contains higher levels of micro- and nanoplastics. However, tap water isn't entirely free of microplastic contamination either.

To minimise this risk, consider using a water filter that is NSF/ANSI-certified to reduce microplastics. These filters have undergone rigorous testing in accredited laboratories and are proven to lower the presence of microplastics in drinking water, though they don’t eliminate them completely.

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