Isabella Sollazzo
Plastic usage has become deeply ingrained in our everyday lives, from plastic bags and cutting boards to single-use drink containers, straws, and much more. These larger plastic items break down into smaller fragments, known as microplastics or nanoplastics, which can be as small as a grain of sand. These particles have infiltrated the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we consume, and even our blood. Though scientists have only recently begun to explore the harmful effects of microplastics on human health, they have already identified several concerning links. Evidence suggests that microplastics increase susceptibility to heart and kidney diseases, Alzheimer’s, cancers, and fertility issues. While microplastics threaten human health at all ages, children are particularly vulnerable due to their formative growth stages.
Microplastics have been detected in almost every part of the human body—from the brain and lungs to tissues—and research shows that 80% of humans have microplastics in their blood, a figure experts believe is steadily increasing. Alarmingly, this means nearly every child born today is exposed to microplastics during prenatal development through their mother’s bloodstream. Compounding this issue, common chemicals found in plastics, such as Bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are resistant to degradation, persisting in microplastics indefinitely. These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone production responsible for growth, metabolism, mood, and reproduction.
A growing body of research has begun to explore the specific effects of microplastics on infant development. Phthalates, which are used to make plastics more flexible and durable, are found in everyday items such as cosmetics, food packaging, and vinyl flooring. Studies have linked higher prenatal exposure to phthalates with delayed cognitive and motor development in preschool-aged children, impairments in language skills, attention deficits, and working memory challenges. Similarly, research involving both human and animal models connects early BPA exposure to memory and cognitive deficits, emotional difficulties, and hyperactivity. National health data further underscore these findings, revealing year-over-year increases in diagnoses of attention deficit disorders, including ADD and ADHD.
These findings manifest in a range of challenges throughout a child's life. Children born today are increasingly likely to struggle academically, leading to lower self-confidence and reduced access to higher education opportunities. Social relationships may become strained due to difficulties in communication, understanding social cues, impulsivity, and low self-esteem. These factors heighten the risk of bullying, anxiety, and depression. As these children transition into adulthood, they may face inhibited job performance, employment instability, and financial stress. Such challenges contribute to worsening health inequities and generational consequences, perpetuating a cycle of harm that affects not just individuals but entire communities.
While individual efforts to reduce plastic use are important, the reality is that global plastic consumption continues to rise, driven largely by industrial manufacturing. Recycling remains inadequate, and even if plastic use ceased entirely today, the microplastic particles already present would linger in the environment for generations. However, this does not mean we are powerless to act. To address the predicted rise in learning and developmental challenges among youth, society must prioritize inclusivity and adaptability. Schools and workplaces can adopt more flexible, individualized approaches to learning and productivity, ensuring that those who process information differently or face attention challenges have equal opportunities to thrive. This could include integrating assistive technologies, offering diverse teaching strategies, and fostering environments that embrace neurodiversity as a strength rather than a limitation. Community-wide efforts to reduce stigma around behavioral and learning differences will also be critical in creating a supportive culture.
On an individual level, reducing personal exposure to microplastics remains a tangible step. Avoiding single-use plastics, choosing glass or stainless-steel containers over plastic ones, and steering clear of processed or packaged foods can help limit intake. Advocacy for stronger regulations on plastic production and enhanced recycling systems is equally essential in tackling the issue at its source.Â
Though the challenges may seem daunting, these steps represent a hopeful path forward. By reducing plastic usage, advocating for systemic change, and fostering inclusivity for future generations, we can work toward mitigating the long-term impacts of microplastic pollution while building a society that is more resilient and equitable.
Citations
Association of American Medical Colleges. (n.d.). Microplastics are inside us all. What does this mean for our health?Retrieved December 29, 2024, from https://www.aamc.org/news/microplastics-are-inside-us-all-what-does-mean-our-health
The Cool Down. (n.d.). Microplastics: A hidden health hazard in human blood and the environment. Retrieved December 29, 2024, from https://www.thecooldown.com/green-tech/microplastics-human-health-hazard-pollution-blood/
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2022, February). Plastic pollution is growing relentlessly as waste management and recycling fall short. Retrieved December 29, 2024, from https://www.oecd.org/en/about/news/press-releases/2022/02/plastic-pollution-is-growing-relentlessly-as-waste-management-and-recycling-fall-short.html