A recent study by the American Heart Association has found a significant correlation between microplastic pollution in coastal waters and higher rates of diabetes, coronary artery disease, and strokes among residents.
Researchers analyzed data from 152 US coastal counties along the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Gulf of America, finding that those with high levels of microplastics had 18% more Type 2 diabetes cases, seven percent more coronary artery disease cases, and nine percent more stroke incidents. The study also revealed that counties along the East Coast and Gulf Coast had higher disease rates than those on the West Coast.
Dr. Sarju Ganatra from Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Massachusetts warned that plastic pollution is not only an environmental issue but also a public health concern, citing that microplastics can increase levels of inflammation and cause numerous diseases.
The study’s findings suggest that nearly 100 million people living along US coastlines are at risk due to exposure to contaminated drinking water, seafood, and air. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than five millimeters in size, which can be found in decomposing plastic waste like bottles, synthetic clothes, and personal care products.
While the study’s limitations were noted, Ganatra emphasized that the results show a clear connection between microplastic pollution and rising health problems. The World Health Organization has also linked stroke survivors to a five-10 year reduction in life expectancy.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-14822253/millions-US-coast-early-death-mysterious-toxin.html