Microplastics found in arterial plaque of stroke patients
Image credit: jessedo81 via Unsplash
Researchers have discovered that stroke patients often have high concentrations of microplastics in the fatty plaques blocking their arteries. Microplastics may interact with these plaques, contributing to inflammation and vascular damage that can trigger heart attacks and strokes. These tiny plastic particles, which can enter the body through food, water, and air, raise concerns about the impact of environmental pollution on cardiovascular health.
Source
Marfella R, Prattichizzo F, Sardu C, et al. Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Atheromas and Cardiovascular Events. N Engl J Med. 2024 Mar 7;390(10):900-910. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2309822. PMID: 38446676; PMCID: PMC11009876.
Additional Reading
https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/microplastics-in-arteries-linked-to-heart-disease-risk