The esteemed New England Journal of Medicine [NEJM] recently reported findings of a study, also reported by Harvard University, linking both microplastics, and even smaller nanoplastics to increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
These plastic particles find their way into our bodies through our skin, the bottled water we drink, and even floating in the air we breathe. They also have been found within the brain, after crossing the protective blood/brain barrier. The disturbing findings in the NEJM were documented by reseachers who examined plaque removed from 257 patients requiring surgical intervention to remove fatty deposits narrowing the carotid arteries in the neck, reducing blood flow going to and from the head.
Studies of the removed plaque, using electron microscopes, found polyethylene in 58% of the samples taken from patients, and polyvinyl chloride [PVC] in 12%. More disturbing, the resolution provided by the high-powered microscopes revealed what the scientists described as, “jagged-edged foreign particles.” These irritating particles were trapped in the fatty coating on the delicate carotid artery linings.
The patient subjects were followed, and after about 3 years, the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death was 4.5 times higher in those whose plaque contained polyethylene or PVC than in those who did not harbor nano or micro plastics. Of note, those with more of the plastics also had higher levels of inflammatory markers. It has long been recognized that inflammation can set the stage for the development of life-altering, life-ending conditions.
The good news is we can reduce our risk of exposure to micro/nano plastics in several ways. Do not drink from plastic bottles. Never heat, or cook, food in plastic vessels or cups. Put hot foods into a refrigerator, and when cold, place in plastic storage or freezer bags, or containers. Carry liquids in containers lined with glass, or other inert substances.
Planning and informed decision making can help reduce our risk.
Dateline: Town of Colonie, Albany County, New York’s Capital Region