Microplastics In Brain Linked To Increased Dementia Risk: Study
Microplastics In Brain Linked To Increased Dementia Risk: Study
A recent study has found that the human brain contains higher levels of microplastics than other organs, linking them to an increased risk of dementia.
Published in Brain Medicine, the study revealed that individuals diagnosed with dementia had 3-5 times more microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) in their brain tissue compared to those without the condition. Dementia, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, leads to memory loss and cognitive decline, with no known cure.
The research also found that the brain contains 7-30 times more microplastics than organs like the liver or kidneys. Lead researcher Dr. Nicholas Fabiano from the University of Ottawa highlighted the alarming rise in brain microplastic levels over the past eight years, correlating it with increasing environmental pollution.
Health Risks of Microplastics
Microplastics smaller than 200 nanometres can enter the bloodstream and disrupt the immune system, posing serious health risks.
Ways to Reduce Exposure
Experts suggest several measures to limit microplastic intake:
- Switching from bottled to tap water, which can reduce annual microplastic consumption from 90,000 to 4,000 particles.
- Using glass or stainless steel containers for food storage and heating instead of plastic.
- Sweating through exercise may help the body eliminate certain plastic-derived compounds.
While more research is needed to fully understand the impact of microplastics on brain health, scientists warn that this could be a major environmental and health crisis in the making.
