Lung And Colon Cancers Linked To Airborne Microplastics, Says Study: Tips To Mitigate Risks

What Are Microplastics?

Small plastic particles with a diameter of less than five millimetres are known as microplastics. Water, air, food, and practically every household object contain them.

Exposure to microplastics has been associated with a number of health hazards, including oxidative stress, inflammation, respiratory, digestive, and even cancer, because they contain toxic compounds that build up in the body over time.

How Do Microplastics Reach Us?

A comprehensive review of nearly 3,000 studies by researchers from UC San Francisco has shed light on the serious health concerns linked to microplastics.

These particles, released from tyres, synthetic clothing, and degrading waste, can infiltrate the body through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. Once inside, they can accumulate in tissues and organs, triggering a series of harmful biological processes.

The Link Between Airborne Microplastics And Cancer

This review uncovered a stark link between airborne microplastics and two types of cancers among other conditions.

Lung Cancer: Microplastics can cause chronic pulmonary inflammation, oxidative stress, and lung injury, creating conditions conducive to lung cancer.

Colon Cancer: Ingested microplastics may accumulate in the digestive tract, disrupting cellular processes, causing DNA damage, and giving space to an environment that increases colon cancer risk.

Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: These particles trigger inflammation and oxidative damage in both the lungs and digestive system, which are key contributors to cancer development.

RELATED: Microplastics Found In Human Breast Milk For The First Time

Tips To Mitigate The Risk Of Airborne Microplastics

While microplastics are ubiquitous, there are practical ways to reduce your exposure and lower associated health risks. In a conversation with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr. Farah Ingale, Director of Internal Medicine, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi shared a few tips to mitigate risks.

Cut Down On Single-Use Plastic

Bottles, straws, and wrappers are examples of single-use plastics that break down and release microplastics into the environment. Make the switch to biodegradable packaging, stainless steel straws, and reusable containers.

Filter The Air Inside

To collect airborne microplastics and other contaminants, use air purifiers equipped with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters. By capturing particles as tiny as 0.3 microns, these filters contribute to better indoor air.

Steer Clear Of Synthetic Fabrics.

Select natural fibres over synthetic ones, such as bamboo, cotton, wool, or linen. To stop plastic fibres from getting into the water and air, wash synthetic garments in a microfibre filter bag.

Maintain A Regular Cleaning Schedule

Dust from homes might contain microplastics. To efficiently collect these particles and stop them from recirculating, use a hoover cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter.  

Purify Your Water

Microplastics are found in 83% of tap water globally. To get rid of these pollutants, use filters like reverse osmosis systems or activated carbon filters that have pores that are one millimetre or less in size.

Make Your House More Airy

Pollutants in indoor air can be decreased with proper ventilation. To reduce exposure to airborne microplastics from car emissions, open windows whenever you can, but refrain from doing so during periods of high traffic.

Participate In Efforts To Reduce Plastic Usage

Participate in neighbourhood initiatives to lessen plastic pollution. Encourage awareness of the risks posed by microplastics, support laws that reduce plastic waste, and take part in clean-up campaigns.

Bottomline

Airborne microplastics are an invisible but potent threat, linked to lung and colon cancer through chronic inflammation and oxidative damage. While avoiding microplastics entirely is impossible, reducing exposure through lifestyle changes and supporting plastic reduction efforts can significantly lower health risks. By staying informed and taking action, you can protect both your health and the environment from this growing concern.