Microplastics found in human blood: study

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Trace amounts of tiny particles of plastic have been found in close to 80 percent of people’s blood samples, according to a new study.

Seventeen out of the 22 blood samples donated voluntarily and anonymously came back with some traces of plastic in them. Eleven of them contained PET plastic, which is what is commonly used in drink bottles. Other plastics found in the samples were polystyrene and polyethylene, used for food packaging and plastic bags, respectively.

According to the Guardian, Dick Vethaak, an ecotoxigologist in Amsterdam, stated that these alarming results indicated the need for further, broader and deeper research, saying:

“Our study is the first indication that we have polymer particles in our blood – it’s a breakthrough result. But we have to extend the research and increase the sample sizes, the number of polymers assessed, etc.”

Professor Vethaak also told the press that “It is certainly reasonable to be concerned,” mentioning that the “particles are there and are transported throughout the body.”

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