Microplastics Have Made Their Way Into Penises. What Can We Do To Avoid Them? | Business Insider

Summary

A recent study has discovered microplastics within human penis tissue for the first time, potentially affecting male fertility. Microplastics, already found in blood and sperm, are ubiquitous, with PET and polypropylene being the most common types identified. This study, albeit small, suggests a link between modern living and increased microplastic presence in our bodies. The health implications are concerning, with endocrine-disrupting chemicals like BPA and phthalates present in microplastics potentially leading to various health issues. Simple measures such as avoiding microwaving plastic, reducing takeout, and regular cleaning can help mitigate exposure.

Takeaways

• 🔬 A new study has discovered microplastics within the Corpus spongiosum, a deep tissue in the penis that plays a role in erections, raising concerns about their potential impact on male fertility.
• 🌐 Microplastics have already been detected in blood and sperm, and their presence in the penis is a logical extension, suggesting they are pervasive throughout the body.
• 📏 Microplastics are defined as plastic particles less than 5 mm wide, often invisible to the naked eye, and can range from 20 to 500 micrometers in width.
• 🔍 The study identified PET and polypropylene as the most common types of microplastics found in the samples, which are commonly used in food packaging and bottle caps.
• 👤 The study sample was small, consisting of six men from Miami with erectile dysfunction, revealing microplastics in five of them, with one exception who led a more traditional lifestyle with less plastic use.
• 📈 The intake of microplastics has increased significantly, with a sixfold rise since 1990, and this trend is expected to continue as global plastic consumption is projected to triple by 2060.
• 🌪️ Microplastics can enter the body through ingestion or inhalation, making their way into the digestive tract, bloodstream, and potentially reaching various organs including the testicles, semen, blood, and brain.
• 🧪 The presence of microplastics in the body is difficult to quantify, but they are known to be present in a wide range of everyday items, from food and drinks to clothing and household dust.
• 🚫 Chemicals within microplastics, such as BPA and phthalates, are endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormones and have been linked to various health issues including cancer, obesity, and reproductive problems.
• 🛑 To reduce microplastic exposure, experts recommend avoiding microwaving plastic, using fewer plastic takeout containers and water bottles, vacuuming regularly to reduce household dust, and choosing natural fibers in clothing.
• 🌱 Washing hands before eating is a universal health tip that also helps to minimize the ingestion of microplastics and germs.

Q & A

What is the first evidence found in the new study regarding microplastics?

The first evidence found in the new study is the presence of microplastics inside penis tissue, specifically in the Corpus spongiosum, which is largely responsible for erections.

How widespread are microplastics in the human body?

Microplastics have been found in blood, sperm, and now penis tissue, indicating that they are widespread throughout the human body.

What is the definition of a microplastic?

A microplastic is defined as any piece of plastic that is less than 5 mm wide, which can include a wide range of materials.

Which two types of plastics were most commonly found in the study?

The two most common types of plastics found in the study were PET, used in food packaging, and polypropylene, used to make bottle caps.

What was the sample size of the study on microplastics in penis tissue?

The sample size for the study was small, consisting of six men living in Miami who were struggling with erectile dysfunction.

How do scientists believe microplastics enter the human body?

Scientists believe that microplastics enter the human body primarily by swallowing or inhaling them, which can then travel through the digestive tract and into the bloodstream.

What is the potential impact of microplastics on male fertility?

The potential impact of microplastics on male fertility is not yet fully understood, but the presence of microplastics in the Corpus spongiosum, which is involved in erections, raises concerns about possible connections to erectile dysfunction.

How has the intake of microplastics changed since 1990?

A recent study suggested that the intake of microplastics has increased sixfold since 1990, and this trend is expected to continue as global plastic consumption is expected to triple by 2060.

What are some of the common chemicals found in microplastics that could impact human health?

Some common chemicals found in microplastics include BPA (bisphenol A), PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), phthalates, and PET, which can act as endocrine disruptors and have been linked to various health issues.

What are some practical tips to avoid microplastics in daily life?

Practical tips to avoid microplastics include not microwaving plastic, avoiding plastic takeout containers and water bottles, vacuuming regularly to reduce household dust, choosing natural fibers in clothing, and washing hands before eating.

What is the broader implication of the findings on microplastics in terms of public health and policy?

The broader implication is that there is a need for increased awareness and regulation of the plastic industry, similar to the way cigarettes were regulated in the past, to mitigate the potential health risks associated with microplastics.