Researchers explore link between microplastics and lung cancer
Researchers at the European Respiratory Society Congress have presented findings suggesting a potential link between the presence of microplastics in human lungs and lung cancer. While the study shows a correlation, scientists emphasize that further research is needed to determine if these particles contribute to disease or are simply retained differently by diseased tissue.
Why it matters
This study adds to growing concerns about the long-term health impacts of environmental microplastic pollution.
People with lung cancer are more likely to have microplastics in their lungs and to have larger quantities of microplastics in their lungs, according to research presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Barcelona, Spain. Researchers say their study adds to evidence that microplastics are entering our bodies via the air we breathe and suggests that there may be a link between microplastics and lung disease.
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