A groundbreaking study has revealed a significant increase in microplastic contamination in human brains, highlighting a worrying trend over the past 50 years. Researchers analyzed postmortem brain, liver, and kidney tissues from individuals who died between 1997 and 2024, finding rising levels of micro- and nanoplastics, particularly in brain tissue.

The study, led by Professor Matthew Campen at the University of New Mexico and published in "Nature Medicine", suggests that the exponential rise in environmental plastic pollution may be mirrored in human organs. The research showed that polyethylene, commonly used in plastic bags and food packaging, accounted for 75% of the total plastic found.

The scientists also discovered that brain samples from individuals with dementia had microplastic concentrations six times higher than others. However, they cautioned against drawing direct conclusions, as brain damage caused by dementia could itself lead to higher plastic accumulation.

Microplastics have already been detected in human blood, semen, breast milk, placentas, and bone marrow, but their full impact on human health remains largely unknown. Some studies have linked them to heart attacks, strokes, and neurological damage. Recent research on mice indicated that microplastics could block blood vessels in the brain, raising concerns about potential risks for humans.

The study found significantly higher microplastic contamination in brain and liver samples from 2024 compared to those from 2016. The trend was also evident in brain tissues analyzed from individuals who had died between 1997 and 2013 on the U.S. east coast, reinforcing concerns about growing plastic pollution in human bodies.

With microplastics present everywhere—from the deepest oceans to Mount Everest—people are increasingly exposed through food, water, and air. The researchers emphasized the urgent need for further investigation into whether these pollutants contribute to neurological disorders and other health effects.

As plastic waste continues to infiltrate the environment and human bodies, scientists are calling for a larger effort to understand its long-term consequences.