In a recent study published in Cell Reports Medicine , researchers review and assess the potential exacerbation of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by micro- and nanoplastics (MnPs) through their impact on inflammation and disease mechanisms. Study: The potential of micro- and nanoplastics to exacerbate the health impacts and global burden of non-communicable diseases . Image Credit: chaiyapruek youprasert / Shutterstock.
com The global incidence of NCDs, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic lung diseases, is rising. Current estimates indicate that NCDs are responsible for about 71% of annual deaths and will be responsible for an economic burden exceeding $30 trillion USD over the next two decades. Environmental pollution exacerbates NCD burden, with MnPs now ubiquitous throughout nature.
Despite their prevalence in lungs, blood, breast milk, placenta, and stool samples, the health risks of MnP exposure remain unclear due to the lack of standardized protocols and mechanistic understanding. Thus, further research is needed to accurately assess the health risks of MnP exposure and their potential role in exacerbating NCDs. Since the 1950s, many studies have indicated a significant rise in MnP concentrations in the environment, reflecting the increase in the production, use, and disposal of plastics worldwide.
Plastics are integral to daily life, thus leading to widespread exposure and potential health risks. MnP toxicity, like other pollutants such as .
