Microplastics found in brain, ovaries, and placenta: Experts warn of silent threat to vital organs
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Nagpur: As 'Plastic Free July' begins, experts are raising an alarm over emerging evidence that microplastics — tiny fragments smaller than 5 millimetres — are infiltrating the human body and lodging themselves in vital organs, potentially altering human health in ways science is only beginning to grasp.
Recent studies detected microplastics not only in blood and lung tissue but disturbingly in the brain, ovaries, placenta, and even testicular tissue. Scientists fear these microscopic invaders could spark a cascade of health consequences, from neurological disorders to reproductive challenges and cancer.
"It's terrifying to think that the plastic we use every day may be silently making its way into our brain and reproductive organs," said Malvvika Fulwani, clinical dietician, adding, "Beyond reducing plastic waste for the planet, 'Plastic Free July' is now a call to protect our own bodies."
In March 2024, researchers from the Medical University of Vienna revealed that micro and nano plastic (MNP) can cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) — a protective shield that normally keeps harmful substances out of the brain. This raises fears of neuroinflammation, impaired memory, and degenerative brain conditions.
"The brain is uniquely vulnerable because any inflammatory reaction or cellular damage can be irreversible," warned Dr Ninad Shrikhade, a neurologist.
"Neuro inflammation linked to microplastics might one day be implicated in diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's. It's a serious public health concern," he added.
Equally concerning is the detection of micro plastics in the ovarian tissue. A 2023 study published in the 'Environmental Health Perspectives' found microplastics embedded in the ovaries of women undergoing surgery, suggesting possible disruption of egg maturation, hormone production, and fertility.
"Microplastics may carry endocrine-disrupting chemicals like phthalates and bisphenols," explained Dr Sanjay Deshpande, senior sexologist. "These chemicals mimic hormones, leading to early puberty in girls, reduced sperm counts in men, thyroid dysfunction, and even increased risks of hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast and prostate cancer."
According to the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) framework, exposure to microplastics during pregnancy — particularly endocrine disruptors — could affect a child's metabolism, immunity, and brain function later in life.
Beyond hormonal disruption, microplastics may be implicated in cancer development. Scientists suspect they can carry carcinogens, cause DNA damage, and provoke chronic inflammation — all known pathways to cancer.
"Cancer is a multi-hit process," said Dr Riya Ballikas, hemato oncologist, adding, "Microplastics might not be the single cause, but they could be one more dangerous hit our cells don't need."
Experts have urged people to limit single-use plastic, especially in food packaging, cosmetics, and baby products.
Choosing glass, steel, or paper alternatives, reducing packaged foods, and supporting plastic-free initiatives are small but crucial steps.
"This 'Plastic Free July', remember it's not just about oceans and turtles," Fulwani said. "It's about what's ending up in our own organs — and in the next generation."
WHAT TO DO IN PLASTIC FREE JULY
* Carry a cloth bag instead of accepting plastic bags
* Switch to steel or glass bottles for water
* Buy loose grains, pulses, and spices rather than plastic-packed products
* Say no to plastic straws and cutlery when eating out
* Choose bar soaps and shampoos instead of products in plastic bottles
* Store leftovers in steel or glass containers instead of disposable plastic boxes
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