The presence of microplastic in the human body is no longer a distant hypothesis - it has become a worrying scientific reality. Plastic, the material that radically transformed the way we live and consume, is now part of our body's chemical composition, silently infiltrating our bloodstream to then rest off in our vital organs. This book explores in detail the specific types of microplastic identified in the human body, deeply analyzes its potential health impact, and presents an innovative project aimed at raising awareness towards this pressing and quite overlooked issue.
Recent scientific studies have shown that a wide range of plastic polymers are present in our blood and vital organs. These particles penetrate our body through the ingestion of contaminated food, inhalation of airborne fragments, and direct contact with common synthetic products such as clothing and cosmetics. It is estimated that each person unintentionally consumes around 50,000 plastic particles per year through food and beverages alone.
The first significant discovery took place in 2018, when researchers identified microplastic in the human intestine. Since then, several studies have confirmed the presence of microplastic in the lungs, heart, kidneys, and liver. Microplastic typically measures between 1 μm and 5 mm, which makes it rather difficult for the body to eliminate it naturally.
Research also points out that it is not only large, visible plastic that poses health and environmental threats.
A major element that worsens the problem even further is the continuous fragmentation of plastic in the environment. Over time, larger plastic compounds break down into microscopic pieces due to sunlight, water, and mechanical friction, forming nanoplastic - particles which are way smaller than microplastic and that can more easily penetrate human tissues, cross cellular barriers, and even reach the central nervous system.
Another important source of microplastic exposure is cosmetics and personal care products. Many exfoliants, soaps, and toothpastes use tiny plastic beads known as microbeads. Since they are not degradable, they wind up being ingested or absorbed through the skin. These particles add up to those already present in the environment, making the risk of internal contamination soar.
