Airborne microplastics: consequences to human health?

JC Prata�- Environmental pollution, 2018 - Elsevier
Environmental pollution, 2018Elsevier
Microplastics have recently been detected in atmospheric fallout in Greater Paris. Due to
their small size, they can be inhaled and may induce lesions in the respiratory system
dependent on individual susceptibility and particle properties. Even though airborne
microplastics are a new topic, several observational studies have reported the inhalation of
plastic fibers and particles, especially in exposed workers, often coursing with dyspnea
caused by airway and interstitial inflammatory responses. Even though environmental�…
Abstract
Microplastics have recently been detected in atmospheric fallout in Greater Paris. Due to their small size, they can be inhaled and may induce lesions in the respiratory system dependent on individual susceptibility and particle properties. Even though airborne microplastics are a new topic, several observational studies have reported the inhalation of plastic fibers and particles, especially in exposed workers, often coursing with dyspnea caused by airway and interstitial inflammatory responses. Even though environmental concentrations are low, susceptible individuals may be at risk of developing similar lesions. To better understand airborne microplastics risk to human health, this work summarizes current knowledge with the intention of developing awareness and future research in this area.
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