A new study published in the European Heart Journal has found that microplastics in blood were detected more frequently in people who survived a heart attack, raising new questions about the possible impact of plastic pollution on cardiovascular health.
Researchers from the University of Campania in Italy also found higher levels of microplastics and nanoplastics in people who smoke and those with greater exposure to air pollution. While the findings suggest a possible link, the researchers emphasized that the study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
Study Examined Patients With Different Heart Conditions
According to the research, microplastics and nanoplastics were found in the coronary arteries of 84% of heart attack patients.
By comparison, the particles were detected in 40% of patients with chronic ischemic heart disease and 32% of individuals with normal coronary arteries.
The researchers said these findings indicate a higher prevalence of the particles among people who experienced acute cardiovascular events.
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics and nanoplastics are tiny plastic particles released from everyday products, including plastic packaging, synthetic clothing and other consumer goods.
These particles have increasingly been detected in air, water, food and the human body, prompting growing scientific interest in their potential health effects.
Researchers Call for Further Investigation
The authors of the study said the findings add to emerging evidence that microplastics may affect cardiovascular health. However, they stressed that the research does not prove that the particles cause heart attacks.
They said additional studies are needed to better understand how long-term exposure to microplastics may influence heart disease and other health conditions.
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