Microplastic pollution-A major health problem-An update

Microplastics are small plastic pieces less than five millimeters long which can be harmful to ocean, aquatic and human life. Plastic is everywhere. A lot of it ends up in the ocean. Most plastics in the ocean break up into very small particles. These small plastic bits are called "microplastics. Other plastics are intentionally designed to be small. They're called microbeads and are used in many health and beauty products. Human uptake of microplastic occurs via inhalation of airborne fibers and ingestion of microplastic-contaminated foods and beverages. Contamination of food can also stem from airborne deposition and the release of microplastic particles and fibers from clothing, production lines and packaging. Additional chemicals are added to give the plastic particular characteristics. Some of these are carcinogens or endocrine disruptors such as bisphenol A and phthalates (plasticizers). Phthalates are associated with elevated blood pressure, obesity, elevated levels of triglycer­ides. Bisphenol A (BPA) is associated with breast, prostate, ovarian, and endo­metrial cancers. However, following the intake of microplastics into the human body, their fate and effects are still controversial and not well known and warrants further detailed clinical studies.