Microplastics have been found in the brain for the first time, leading scientists to conclude people are breathing in the harmful particles.
Plastic fibres and particles were found in the brains of several people who had died – thought to originate from clothing, bottles and food packaging.
Experts warned the plastics are infiltrating and potentially changing cells, adding that there ‘can be no further doubt’ about the dangers posed to human health.
Scientists conducted the study on samples taken from the brains of 15 people from Sao Paulo, Brazil, finding traces of polypropylene in eight of them.
The microplastics were identified in part of the brain known as the olfactory bulb, which are above the nasal cavities which process information about smells and relay it to other parts of the brain.
Researchers discovered traces of plastic fibres and particles in the brains of people who died
They were also present in the nose, reinforcing the idea that this is a major point of entry to the brain.
Researchers fear levels of smaller nanoplastics, which pass into the human body with greater ease, will be even higher.
Professor Thais Mauad, lead researcher from the University of São Paulo, said: ‘This study finds that the olfactory pathway is a potential major entry route for plastic into the brain, meaning that breathing within indoor environments could be a major source of plastic pollution in the brain.
‘With much smaller nanoplastics entering the body with greater ease, the total level of plastic particles may be much higher.
‘What is worrying is the capacity of such particles to be internalised by cells and alter how our bodies function.’
The world produces 500 million tons of plastic every year and scientists have highlighted the risks created when it breaks down.
Experts say you can cut your exposure to microplastics by swapping out plastics in your home for natural materials, metal and glass
The substance which was only invented in the 20th century, is increasingly being found inside our bodies, including babies in the womb and breast milk.
Scientists compiled a list of over 16,000 chemicals present in plastic products, with more than 4,000 considered hazardous to human health and the environment.
Researchers are increasingly concerned about the capacity of such particles to be internalised within cells causing alterations in cellular function, particularly when interacting with organs in children and causing definitive alterations in adult life.
There is a growing body of evidence that plastics could play a key role in early-onset cancer genesis, where healthy cells turn cancerous.
You could be ingesting a huge amount of microplastics just from chopping your food on a plastic board
Earlier this year, a study found cancer cells in the gut spread at an accelerated rate after contact with microplastics.
Maria Westerbos, co-founder, Plastic Health Council, said: ‘Time and time again scientists are peeling back the cover on plastics’ dangerous effects on human health. There can be no further doubt.
‘The international community is only months away from the final Global Plastics Treaty negotiations, and yet policymakers are giving into the petrochemical giants.
‘The international community cannot waste any more time, they must finally listen to science, once and for all.’
