Microplastics, tiny particles formed as larger plastic products break down, have been detected in several human organs in recent years, including blood, lungs and the liver.
Scientists are still investigating their potential health effects.
A new U.S. study now reports measurable levels of microplastics in prostate tissue from men diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The research was conducted by scientists at NYU Langone Health and presented at a scientific symposium of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.
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The project was funded by the U.S. Department of Defense.
Higher concentrations in tumor tissue
The study analyzed tissue samples from ten men who underwent prostate removal surgery.
Researchers tested for twelve common types of plastic using contamination-controlled laboratory procedures in specialized clean rooms.
Microplastics were detected in 90 percent of tumor samples and in 70 percent of non-cancerous tissue samples.
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The difference was more pronounced in concentration: tumor tissue contained an average of about 40 micrograms of plastic per gram of tissue, compared with approximately 16 micrograms per gram in non-cancerous tissue.
Preliminary findings
The study does not establish a causal link between microplastics and prostate cancer.
However, researchers are examining whether microplastics could contribute to chronic inflammation, a prolonged immune response that may alter cellular behavior over time.
Because the study included only ten patients, the findings are considered preliminary.
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Larger studies are needed to determine whether the results are consistent and clinically significant.
Sources: Science Daily.
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