Plastic Exposure: An Invisible Threat to Human Life
Plastic has become an integral part of modern life, so much so that it is now an invisible yet persistent component of our environment. Its fragments surround human life in various forms. Plastic is everywhere: from the packaging of our food to the clothes we wear, the tires on our cars, and the furniture and utensils in our homes and offices.
While its convenience and versatility have transformed numerous industries, scientific evidence reveals a distressing reality. Plastics are no longer limited to our environment—they are entering our bodies. The presence of plastics, particularly in the form of microplastics and nanoplastics, within the human body signals a silent invasion with potentially profound health consequences. This alarming development demands urgent attention and comprehensive research.
One major route of exposure is the air we breathe. Microplastic fibers shed from synthetic textiles, fragments from car tires, and particles from various plastic products become airborne and are easily inhaled through our respiratory system. Indoor environments—both offices and homes—tend to be rich in synthetic furnishings and clothing, leading to significantly higher concentrations of airborne microplastics than the outdoors. Absorption through the skin is another potential source of exposure, particularly with the growing use of plastic-containing personal care products and cosmetics. However, this area remains under-researched.
Individuals working in plastic factories face unique and elevated risks. These workers are constantly exposed to........
© The Spine Times
