Living in a U.S. coastal county bordered by ocean waters with high concentrations of microplastics may pose a risk to heart and metabolic health, a recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests. The research, led by Dr. Sarju Ganatra of Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington, Massachusetts, found that residents of coastal counties with high levels of microplastic pollution were more likely to experience conditions such as type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, and stroke.
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are less than 5 millimeters in size, originating from the breakdown of larger plastic waste. These particles can be found in various sources, including drinking water, seafood, and even the air. The study focused on the concentration of marine microplastic pollution within 200 nautical miles of coastal counties, categorizing pollution levels into four groups: low, medium, high, and very high.
The analysis revealed that individuals living in counties with very high levels of microplastic pollution had a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, and stroke compared to those in counties with lower pollution levels. Interestingly, counties along the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coasts showed a higher prevalence of these cardiometabolic diseases compared to those on the Pacific coast.
Dr. Ganatra emphasized the need for further research on the impact of microplastics on health, highlighting the ubiquitous nature of plastic pollution and its potential health implications. He called for policymakers to address plastic pollution as both an environmental and public health crisis, urging a shift from awareness to action.
While the study had limitations in terms of its county-level analysis and the absence of individual-level data, it sets the stage for future research to explore the mechanisms through which microplastics may affect human health. The research team is planning follow-up studies to assess individual microplastic exposure and its influence on inflammatory markers and cardiovascular stress.
In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of understanding the health risks associated with plastic pollution and the need for proactive measures to mitigate its impact. By raising awareness and advocating for policies that address plastic pollution, we can work towards safeguarding both environmental and human health for future generations.
