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Plastics in our Blood? That's a problem

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Plastics Are Everywhere – Even in our Bodies: Harvard Thinking Podcast Explores the Health Impacts of Microplastics


Our world is awash in plastic. Every year, we produce an astonishing 430 million tons, most of which is used briefly and then discarded. But the problem doesn’t end in landfills or the ocean—plastic is now inside us. Microplastics have been detected in human blood, lungs, and other organs, raising urgent questions about their effects on health.


In the latest episode of Harvard Thinking, host Samantha Laine Perfas speaks with leading experts on microplastics, including cell biologist Don Ingber, environmental health scientist Mary Johnson, and renowned nanomaterial researcher Philip Demokritou. A globally recognized expert in environmental health and nanotoxicology, Demokritou is a key thought leader in the field, pioneering research into the health impacts of nano and microplastics. He also serves on the Expert Advisory Board of the PlasticsFatE project, contributing invaluable insights into the risks and mitigation strategies for microplastics in our environment and bodies.


Key Takeaways from the Episode:

  • We consume approximately 5 grams of microplastics per week—the equivalent of eating a credit card.

  • Microplastics enter our bodies through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact.

  • They have been found in every major organ, where they persist and release harmful substances over time.

  • Children and vulnerable communities may be at higher risk due to increased exposure.

  • Despite the alarming findings, solutions are emerging, including biodegradable plastic alternatives and innovative clean-up technologies.


What Can We Do? Experts suggest practical steps to minimize plastic exposure, from choosing natural fibres over synthetic clothing to avoiding plastic food containers, particularly when exposed to heat. However, systemic change is needed—researchers emphasize the importance of global policies, better monitoring methods, and industry shifts towards safer, biodegradable materials.


This episode of Harvard Thinking provides a compelling, science-backed discussion on one of the most pressing environmental and health challenges of our time.



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