Microplastics found in human blood, doctor explains health risks

Microplastics, tiny plastic particles, have long been considered an environmental problem. They were thought to affect oceans, rivers, and wildlife. But new research shows that these particles are now being found inside the human body, including in the blood. Some studies even report microplastics in arterial plaques, which are fatty deposits in blood vessels that can cause heart problems. This discovery has raised new concerns about human health, especially heart health.

According to Dr Amit Khandelwal, Director and Head of Cardiology at Paras Health, Udaipur, “Microplastics were never meant to be inside the human body. Finding them in blood and blood vessels raises questions about inflammation, circulation, and long-term heart health.” This is a serious shift in how we think about plastic. It is no longer just an environmental issue—it is now a medical concern as well.

How microplastics enter the body and affect health

Microplastics are created when larger plastic products slowly break down. They are found in many everyday items, including packaged food, bottled water, synthetic clothing fibers, household dust, and even the air we breathe. Over time, people inhale or ingest these particles without realizing it. Recent studies have detected microplastics in human blood samples, showing that these particles can cross biological barriers and remain in the body instead of just passing through.

Dr Amit explains that while microplastics do not act as direct toxins, they behave like foreign particles in the bloodstream. “Whenever a foreign material enters the blood, the immune system responds,” he says. This immune response often involves inflammation. Chronic inflammation is already known to contribute to heart disease, stroke, and damage to blood vessels. Microplastics may add to this problem by increasing inflammation and acting as an extra stressor on the cardiovascular system.

Early studies also suggest that microplastics found in arterial plaques could be linked to a higher risk of heart attacks or other cardiovascular events. While this does not prove that microplastics directly cause heart disease, it highlights a possible connection that cannot be ignored. People with existing risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, or obesity, may face increased risk when exposed to these tiny plastic particles.

Medical experts emphasize that this is still an emerging area of research. There is no evidence yet to say that microplastics alone cause heart disease. “This is not about panic,” Dr Amit stresses. “It is about awareness. Like air pollution or a sedentary lifestyle, microplastics may be one of several factors that influence cardiovascular health over time.” The biggest concern is long-term, daily exposure, combined with other environmental and lifestyle risks.

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How to reduce exposure to microplastics

Completely avoiding microplastics is nearly impossible. They are everywhere in modern life. However, there are simple steps that can reduce exposure. Using glass or steel containers instead of plastic ones, avoiding plastic when reheating food, and choosing fresh or unpackaged foods are practical measures. Proper ventilation indoors can also help reduce airborne microplastics.

Dr Amit adds that strengthening the body’s resilience is just as important as reducing exposure. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management all help reduce inflammation and protect blood vessels. These healthy habits support the heart and overall health, even in an environment where microplastics are unavoidable.

The discovery of microplastics in human blood is a reminder that modern lifestyles are closely tied to health. What started as an environmental issue has quietly become a human issue. Researchers are still studying the long-term effects of microplastics on the body, but experts agree that awareness is the best response. “Understanding emerging risks allows us to make better choices for our bodies and the environment we live in,” says Dr Amit.

In the end, tiny plastic particles may seem harmless because they are invisible, but they raise big questions about the health of our blood vessels and heart. Paying attention to small habits, choosing safer alternatives, and supporting a healthy lifestyle are simple but important ways to protect yourself while research continues.