Researchers quantified 12 types of microplastics and found the presence of microplastics within both canine and human testes.
Findings of study
- Humans and canines exhibited relatively similar proportions of major polymer types in the male reproductive system, with Polyethylene (PE) being dominant.
- It highlights that microplastics can have potential consequences on male fertility with a possible reduction in sperm count.
Microplastics
- Microplastics are small plastic pieces less than five millimeters long, harmful to living organisms. There are two categories of microplastics:
- Primary microplastics are tiny particles designed for commercial use, such as cosmetics, clothing, etc. and microfibres shed from textiles.
- Secondary microplastics are particles that result from the breakdown of larger plastic items.
Impact of Microplastics
- Human Health Risks: Microplastics reach humans through trophic transfer and biomagnification, linked to health issues such as endocrine disruption, weight gain, insulin resistance, decreased reproductive health, and cancer.
- Microplastics have previously been found in human blood, lungs, breast milk, and placentas.
- Harm to Wildlife: When ingested, it has both toxic and mechanical effects e.g., reduced food intake, suffocation, behavioural changes, and genetic alteration.
- Environmental Pollution: Causes disturbance to the ecosystem and reduction in biological activity due to ubiquitous and non-biodegradable nature.
Steps taken to reduce microplastics
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