Plastic has become a part of everyday life. It is in bottles, containers, kitchen utensils, and even in storage drawers. Most people use it without thinking, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. But plastic is not completely safe, says Dr. Jayesh Sharma, a cancer surgeon based in Raipur with over 25 years of experience. He has shared tips to reduce everyday exposure and explained the hidden health risks of daily plastic use.
Dr. Sharma spoke about the topic on Instagram on November 24, 2025. His explanation was calm and practical, focusing on what people can do to protect themselves rather than creating unnecessary fear.
One of the main concerns with plastic is chemical leaching. Plastic containers are made of synthetic chemicals, and over time, some of these chemicals can move into food or water stored in them. Dr. Sharma explained that leaching becomes worse in certain conditions:
Heat: Heating food in plastic containers increases chemical release.
Quality: Low-quality plastic containers release more chemicals than better-made ones.
Age: Old or worn-out containers lose protective layers, making chemical release easier.
Another issue is microplastics. These are tiny plastic particles that cannot be seen with the naked eye. They form when larger plastic items break down due to sunlight, heat, or wear. Microplastics are now found almost everywhere: in food, water, air, and even inside the human body. Dr. Sharma said microplastics can enter cells, lungs, and the bloodstream, creating hidden exposure.
When chemicals or microplastics enter the body, they may cause:
Endocrine disruption: This affects hormone balance in the body.
Inflammation: Long-term exposure can stress tissues and organs.
Dr. Sharma clarified that there is no strong evidence directly linking plastics to cancer yet. Some pathways are still being studied. The risk seems small but is worth reducing, as it is better to be safe.
Dr. Sharma also shared practical steps to reduce the risks from plastics in everyday life. These changes are easy and effective.
Avoid heating food in plastic containers whenever possible. Microwaving plastic can release chemicals, even if it is labeled “microwave-safe.” This label only means the plastic won’t melt, not that it is free from chemicals. Using glass or ceramic containers is safer for heating or storing hot food.
Be careful with water storage. Overhead water tanks made of stable plastic are generally safe if the water temperature is below 50°C. Bathing water stored in buckets does not pose a drinking risk, so it is less harmful.
Choose safer bottles and feeding items for babies. BPA-free bottles are relatively safe, but glass or steel bottles are better. Bottle nipples made of silicone are preferable, and good-quality silicone molds can be used for baking at moderate temperatures.
Reduce microplastic intake. Almost half of microplastics enter the body through drinking water. Using a water filter can reduce this exposure. Indoor air contains more microplastics than outdoor air, so good ventilation helps. Regular vacuuming and mopping also reduce indoor microplastic levels.
Dr. Sharma emphasized that small, consistent changes in daily habits can significantly lower exposure to harmful plastic chemicals and microplastics. Using glass, ceramic, or steel instead of low-quality plastic, avoiding heating plastic, and filtering water are simple but effective steps.
People often overlook the risks because the effects of plastic exposure are not immediately visible. However, long-term exposure can affect health quietly, contributing to hormone problems and chronic inflammation. Reducing plastic exposure is a precautionary measure that helps protect overall health.
By making small adjustments at home, people can continue using plastics safely without completely eliminating them. Dr. Sharma’s advice focuses on practical steps that everyone can follow. For example, storing water in safe tanks, using proper bottles for infants, ventilating rooms, and avoiding low-quality or heated plastics can all reduce the hidden health risks.
Even though plastics are convenient and widely used, understanding how they affect health and taking simple safety measures can make a big difference. Dr. Sharma’s guidance shows that everyday choices—like using glass containers for hot food or filtering water—are powerful tools to reduce exposure and protect long-term health.
In summary, while plastics are everywhere in modern life, small actions can help reduce the hidden risks. Avoid heating plastics, use safer alternatives for food and water, filter drinking water, and maintain good ventilation indoors. These steps can help minimize chemical leaching and microplastic intake, supporting better health for adults and children alike.
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