Researchers have identified cancer-causing substances present in our water, food, and air, revealing a significant source of the disease.

A recent comprehensive scientific review has uncovered a potentially dangerous link between microplastics and certain types of cancer, as well as other serious health conditions. By identifying this connection, researchers may have unraveled one of the fundamental mysterious causes of cancer development in recent times, reports Daily Mail.

In their review, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology and led by Nicolas Chartres, a senior research fellow at the Faculty of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney, the researchers examined over 3,000 studies to assess the impact of these microscopic plastic particles on human health.

The findings suggest that microplastics may contribute to an increase in cases of colorectal and lung cancer, particularly among non-smokers, as well as reproductive issues such as infertility. These concerns are alarming given the nearly ubiquitous presence of microplastics in the environment and their bioaccumulative nature.

Microplastics, defined as plastic fragments smaller than 5 mm, originate from everyday products such as packaging, tires, and clothing. They infiltrate the air, water, and food, leading to their detection in human organs. The immune system recognizes microplastics as foreign substances, triggering inflammation that can result in tissue damage. Over time, this chronic inflammation may lead to severe diseases, including liver and heart damage, and in severe cases, cancer.

Colorectal cancer, historically more common among older individuals, is now increasingly being diagnosed in younger populations. Similarly, the incidence of lung cancer unrelated to smoking is on the rise. Research has shown that microplastics can disrupt the protective mucus layer in the colon and create conditions conducive to tumor development. In the respiratory system, these particles are associated with airway inflammation and lung damage, further increasing the risk of cancer.

Reproductive health is another area of concern for scientists. Microplastics have been linked to ovarian function disruption, decreased sperm quality, and even premature births. Researchers have found microplastics in human placentas and amniotic fluid, indicating a potential risk for fetal development. The study emphasizes the need for further exploration of these connections and calls for immediate regulatory and policy measures to reduce exposure.

The scale of the problem is immense, according to the authors. Nearly 460 million metric tons of plastic are produced annually, and this figure is projected to triple by 2060. Such escalation exacerbates the issue of microplastic pollution, necessitating swift action to limit production and improve waste management. The economic ramifications of this pollution are also significant: the U.S. healthcare system alone incurs annual losses of $289 billion due to microplastic exposure.

Important! This article is based on the latest scientific and medical research and does not contradict them. The text is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice. For diagnosis, please consult a physician.