Here's How Plastic Pollution Is Affecting Your Body

Plastic pollution refers to the accumulation of plastic waste in the environment, on land, in water bodies, and even in the air. Plastics are synthetic materials that do not biodegrade easily, and over time, they break down into smaller fragments called microplastics. These microplastics have made their way into our food, drinking water, and even the air we breathe. As a result, plastic pollution is not only damaging ecosystems but also posing serious threats to human health. Continuous exposure to plastic particles and the harmful chemicals used in their production can interfere with our body systems, disrupt hormones, and increase the risk of various health conditions. Below we discuss various ways through which plastic pollution affects your health.

Plastic pollution affects your body in various ways:

1. Hormonal disruption

Plastics often contain chemicals like BPA and phthalates, which mimic human hormones and interfere with our endocrine system. These compounds can cause imbalances in oestrogen and testosterone levels, potentially affecting fertility, metabolism, and even brain development.

2. Increased risk of cancer

Many plastic components and their additives are classified as carcinogens. Prolonged exposure to these substances, especially through contaminated food and water, may increase the risk of cancers like breast, prostate, and liver cancer.

3. Microplastics in food and water

Microplastics have been detected in seafood, salt, fruits, and even bottled water. Once ingested, they may accumulate in our digestive system, causing inflammation, altering gut bacteria, and potentially leading to long-term gastrointestinal issues.

4. Respiratory issues

Burning plastic releases toxic fumes including dioxins and furans, which, when inhaled, can damage the lungs, irritate the airways, and trigger chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and bronchitis.

5. Neurological effects

Some plastic-related chemicals, such as styrene and BPA, are linked to neurological effects. Long-term exposure may lead to memory loss, reduced concentration, and behavioural changes, especially in children and developing foetuses.

6. Weakened immune function

Toxins leaching from plastics can impair the immune system's ability to fight infections. They may alter white blood cell activity, increase inflammation, and make the body more vulnerable to autoimmune diseases.

7. Liver and kidney damage

The body attempts to detoxify harmful plastic chemicals through the liver and kidneys. Constant exposure may overburden these organs, leading to inflammation, decreased detoxification efficiency, and eventual organ damage.

8. Disruption of reproductive health

Plastics can interfere with reproductive organs and hormone levels, contributing to issues such as low sperm count, early puberty, menstrual irregularities, and complications during pregnancy.

9. Obesity and metabolic disorders

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics can affect how fat is stored and metabolised. This disruption can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.

10. Cardiovascular issues

Some studies have shown that microplastic exposure can elevate blood pressure and promote oxidative stress, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. The inflammation caused by plastic particles may also negatively affect blood vessel function.

Avoid exposure of plastic pollution to reduce these health risks.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.