High levels of microplastics found in human brains

New Study Finds High Levels of Microplastics in Human Brains.

A groundbreaking study, recently published in Nature Medicine, has found concerning concentrations of nanoplastics in human brain samples. The study shows an increase in plastic particles over time, with samples from 2024 revealing nearly 5 micrograms of plastic per gram of brain tissue—a 50% increase compared to 2016 levels.

Researchers, led by Dr. Matthew Campen of the University of New Mexico, also found higher concentrations of plastic in the brains of individuals with various types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s. While a direct link between microplastics and dementia hasn’t been established, the potential association warrants further investigation.

Key findings: Nanoplastics were found in every brain sample analyzed. Microplastic levels have risen over the past 8 years, aligning with increasing plastic pollution. Dementia patients' brains contained significantly more plastic than healthy ones, raising alarm about the potential effects.

The study calls attention to the possible impact of microplastics on brain health, urging more research to understand their role in neurodegenerative diseases. This discovery highlights the need for urgent action on reducing plastic pollution.

Read more: High levels of microplastics found in human brains - The New Lede