Microplastics found in 68% of bladder cancer cases, WHO report raises big question on water cleanliness
Microplastics are found in many organs of the body, including the lungs, liver, kidneys and spleen. In the lungs, these particles can cause inflammation or respiratory problems.
New research has raised concerns over the safety of drinking water. A study conducted by researchers at Australia's Bond University found microplastics in 68% of bladder cancer cases, which have been linked to inflammation and cell damage. This study challenges the report released by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2019, which said that microplastics in drinking water do not pose a threat to human health.
The researchers have appealed to organizations like WHO to reconsider their position on the threat of microplastics to human health. The study said that a total of 18 articles were identified, of which six investigated and characterised the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the human bladder system. Microplastics were found in kidney, urine and bladder cancer samples.
What are microplastics and how do they enter the human body?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, less than 5 millimeters in size. They are mostly found in oceans, rivers, soil and even the atmosphere. Excessive use of plastic in daily life and lack of waste management are considered to be the main reasons for this. Plastic takes years to decompose, turning into smaller particles.
Microplastics reach through water and food
Microplastics enter the human body mainly through food and water. Marine creatures (which often swallow plastic mistaking it for food) are included in our diet. Bottled and tap water have also been found to be contaminated with microplastics. Apart from this, these particles also enter the body through air, especially in urban areas, where plastic particles accumulate in the form of dust.
Research has found that microplastics are found in many organs of the body, including the lungs, liver, kidneys and spleen. In the lungs, these particles can cause inflammation or respiratory problems. Similarly, the presence of microplastics in the liver and kidneys can interfere with their normal functions.
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