Tiny particles of plastic pollution can find their way deep into our lungs with every breath we take, new research reveals. Known as microplastics or nanoplastics, research from the University of Technology Sydney has used sophisticated computer models to understand what happens when we inhale these particles and where in our bodies they end up.
Air pollution with plastic particles is already widespread and inhalation ranks as the second most likely route for human exposure to microplastic particles," said lead author Dr Suvash Saha, quoted by euronews.com. Oral intake, or in other words eating and drinking them, is the most common route of exposure.
Previous research has shown that microplastics and nanoplastics are widespread both outdoors and indoors, meaning it's an indiscriminate problem.
What determines where plastics end up in the lungs?
The study found that breathing patterns play a role in where these plastic particles end up. Rapid breathing, where air moves quickly through the nose and throat, can result in larger particles being trapped in the upper respiratory tract.
Slower breathing gives smaller particles – especially nanoplastics – more time to reach deeper into the respiratory system. They can potentially reach sensitive, delicate structures deep within the lungs.
Shape can also matter when it comes to where these particles end up. Research shows that irregularly shaped fragments can slip better through the body's natural filtering mechanisms.
There are certain areas in the lungs where plastics are more likely to accumulate, potentially leading to health problems.
What health problems can plastics cause in the lungs?
The main sources of these plastics are mass-produced cosmetics and personal care products. Secondary sources are fragments created by the breakdown of larger plastic products such as water bottles or clothing.
Research now conclusively shows that these plastic particles increase human susceptibility to a number of lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, fibrosis, dyspnea (shortness of breath), asthma and abnormal lesions in the lungs known as ground-glass nodules.