Research finds microplastics in human testicles resulting in decline in sperm count

According to a report by The Guardian, micro plastics have been found in human testicles affecting the sperm quantity. The study was conducted by researchers at the University of New Mexico in the United States and was published in the Toxicological Sciences journal.

Research finds microplastics in human testicles

The research which is titled ‘Microplastic presence in dog and human testis and its potential association with sperm count and weights of testis and epididymis', involved testing 23 human and 47 dog testes.
One of the researchers and authors of the study and also a professor at the University of New Mexico, Xiaozhong Yu told The Guardian, “At the beginning, I doubted whether microplastics could penetrate the reproductive system. When I first received the results for dogs, I was surprised. I was even more surprised when I received the results for humans."

The most common microplastic found was Polyethylene used in plastic bags and bottles

According to the study human testicles contained nearly three times the plastic concentration found in dog testes: 330 micrograms per gram of tissue versus 123 micrograms. The most common microplastic found was Polyethylene used in plastic bags and bottles followed by PVC.

Earlier this year another study published in the Toxicological Sciences journal, found that microplastics are present in human placenta.
Scientists at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences used a new tool to check how much of these microplastics are in human placentas and it was detected in all 62 placenta samples examined, with concentrations varying between 6.5 and 790 micrograms per gram of tissue.

How else do microplastics affect human health?

Physical Blockage and Damage: Microplastics ingested in large quantities may physically damage the gastrointestinal tract or cause blockages, although this is more likely in marine life than humans due to the smaller quantities humans typically ingest.

Inflammation and Toxicity: Microplastics can induce inflammation in tissues. Their small size allows them to penetrate tissues and potentially enter the bloodstream and other organs, leading to local inflammatory responses.

Chemical Leaching: Microplastics can absorb and carry toxic chemicals from the environment, such as pesticides, heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants. These chemicals can then be released into the human body, potentially causing various health issues including endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and carcinogenic effects.

Carriers of Pathogens: Microplastics can harbor harmful microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, which could potentially lead to infections if ingested or inhaled.

Also watch: Scientists say plastic particles found in pregnant women's uterus is alarming and hazardous