Tag

Nanoplastics

All articles tagged with #nanoplastics

Tiny plastics in bottled water exceed prior estimates, study finds
science25 days ago

Tiny plastics in bottled water exceed prior estimates, study finds

A peer‑reviewed study in Science of the Total Environment found bottled water contains higher concentrations of microplastics and nanoplastics than treated tap water, with nanoplastics making up more than 50% of detected particles. Using advanced techniques like scanning electron microscopy and optical photothermal infrared spectroscopy, researchers warn that nanoplastics can cross cellular barriers and potentially reach organs, underscoring the need for better detection and consideration of alternatives to bottled water (e.g., filtered tap water or reusable bottles).

science1 month ago

Microplastics: new scrutiny shakes up claims of rampant health risks

A wave of critique questions whether microplastics pose the health risks often reported. A Nature Medicine letter argues detection methods are flawed and that fats in the body could cause false positives, while other researchers point to contamination and methodological gaps in many studies. Although some experts still warn microplastics can enter the body and be biologically active, there is no consensus on harm; advances like new imaging techniques aim to reduce contamination and better link plastics to disease, but it may take years to standardise methods and reach firm conclusions.

Scientists Discover 27 Million Tons of Hidden Plastic
environment7 months ago

Scientists Discover 27 Million Tons of Hidden Plastic

Researchers have estimated that the North Atlantic Ocean contains about 27 million tons of nanoplastics less than 1 micrometer in size, highlighting the vast and largely invisible scale of plastic pollution in our oceans and its potential impact on ecosystems and human health. The study emphasizes the need to prevent further plastic pollution, as nanoplastics are pervasive and difficult to clean up.

27 Million Tons of Nanoplastics Found in North Atlantic, Raising Environmental Concerns
environment7 months ago

27 Million Tons of Nanoplastics Found in North Atlantic, Raising Environmental Concerns

Scientists have estimated that approximately 27 million tons of nanoplastics are present in the North Atlantic Ocean, revealing a vast amount of tiny plastic particles that are difficult to clean up and pose potential risks to marine life and human health. The study highlights the importance of preventing further plastic pollution rather than attempting to remove existing nanoplastics.

"Link Between Microplastics in Artery Plaque and Cardiovascular Risks Uncovered"
health1 year ago

"Link Between Microplastics in Artery Plaque and Cardiovascular Risks Uncovered"

A new study has found a correlation between the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics in artery plaque and a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and death. The study analyzed plaque samples from 257 patients undergoing preventative surgery and found that those with detectable microplastics and nanoplastics had an increased risk of cardiovascular events. The presence of these plastics was also associated with signs of inflammation and was more common in participants with diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This adds to a growing body of evidence linking plastic products to potential health risks, prompting further investigation into the specific mechanisms by which microplastics and nanoplastics may cause harm in the body.

"Health Risks: Microplastics Found in Atheromas Linked to Cardiovascular Events"
health2 years ago

"Health Risks: Microplastics Found in Atheromas Linked to Cardiovascular Events"

A new study suggests that the buildup of microplastics and nanoplastics inside the body may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death, but researchers note that the evidence presented cannot prove a direct link. The study involved 257 people with narrowed arteries and found evidence of plastics in the artery plaque of 150 patients. While more research is needed to confirm or disprove the connection, the study serves as a wake-up call to take the issue of microplastics more seriously in relation to potential health risks.