Microplastics in 68% bladder cases: Study challenges WHO report, raises BIG question on water safety

A new study has triggered concern around the safety of water standards that is being consumed currently. A group of researchers have found microplastics in 68% of bladder cancer cases and linked them to inflammation and cell damage.

The study led by researchers at Bond University, Australia has challenged a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) released in 2019 that said that microplastics in drinking water did not present a threat to human health. "As a result, institutions such as the World Health Organisation need to urgently re-evaluate their position on the threat of microplastics to public health," the researchers have urged.

"Eighteen articles were identified, six of which investigated and characterised the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the human urinary tract. Microplastics were found to be present in kidney, urine and bladder cancer samples," the researchers have said.

These microplastics have cytotoxic effects, increase inflammation, decrease cell viability and alter mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathways, the researchers have said.

What are microplastics? How do they enter the human body?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, less than 5 millimeters in dimension. They are mostly found in oceans, rivers, soils, and are even present in the atmosphere and the extensive use of plastic in daily life and poor waste management is to be blamed for it. Also, since plastics are difficult to degrade, hence over time, plastic fragments into microplastic particles due to exposure to sunlight, wind, and water .

Microplastics enter the human body primarily through ingestion and inhalation. They are commonly found in food and water, particularly in seafood, as marine organisms often mistake plastic for food. Tap water and bottled water have also been shown to contain microplastic particles. Additionally, microplastics are present in the air we breathe, especially in urban environments where plastic dust accumulates.

Once inside the body, microplastics can pass through the gastrointestinal tract or lungs. Concerns have been raised about the potential for inflammation, cellular damage, or the release of toxic chemicals that may be harmful to human health.

Microplastics have been detected in several human organs. Studies have confirmed the presence of microplastic particles in the lungs, liver, kidneys, and spleen.

In the lungs, microplastics are inhaled through the air. Once inhaled, they can become lodged in the lung tissue, where their presence may cause inflammation or respiratory issues. The liver and kidneys filter blood and play a crucial role in detoxifying the body. Microplastics that enter the bloodstream through ingestion may accumulate in these organs, possibly leading to disruptions in their normal functions. Studies have shown that plastic particles can pass through the intestinal lining and enter the circulatory system. In the spleen microplastics may interfere with immune responses.