A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) has found that microplastics in the air may be linked to a range of serious health problems, including lung and colorectal cancers. The study, which was led by Dr. Tracey J. Woodruff, is the first to use a systematic review methodology recognized by the National Academy of Sciences to assess the health impacts of microplastics.
According to the study, which drew on over 3,000 research papers, microplastics are a significant source of air pollution and may be inhaled into the lungs, leading to chronic respiratory problems and potentially even cancer. The researchers found that exposure to microplastics was linked to an increased risk of lung and colorectal cancer, as well as other health problems such as infertility and reproductive issues.
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are smaller than 5 millimeters in diameter and are found in the environment worldwide. They are often released into the air through the wear and tear of car tires on the road, as well as the breakdown of plastic waste. The study estimates that the global production of microplastics is around 46 million tons per year, and is expected to reach 11 billion tons by 2050.
The researchers are calling for regulatory agencies and policymakers to take action to reduce the health risks associated with microplastics. While the study's findings are based on animal experiments, the researchers believe that the results may also apply to humans.
**Source:** UCSF News Article, December 2024
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* [UCSF News Article](https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2024/12/429161/microplastics-air-may-be-leading-lung-and-colon-cancers)
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