A new study published in Toxicological Sciences detected microplastics in the tissue of both human and dog testicles.
In short:
- In total, twelve different types of microplastics were found in human and dog testes.
- These microplastics were detected in every tissue sample tested, although the amount varied significantly between individuals.
- Overall, humans’ testes contained three times the amount of microplastics in comparison to dogs’.
Key quote:
“Significant knowledge gaps remain regarding the internal levels of microplastics and their correlation with environmental plastic exposure and reproductive health impacts.”
Why this matters:
Plastic use has continued to grow exponentially since the mid-twentieth century, with nearly a metric ton of plastic waste produced for every person on the planet. Recent studies have confirmed that microplastics are present in everything from bottled water to meat and all parts of the human body that have been examined. The questions this study raises about the impacts of plastic pollution on male fertility are critical and warrant more research.
Related EHN coverage:
- New study finds microplastics in all human placentas tested
- Are microplastics invading the male reproductive system?
More resources:
- Environmental Health Sciences Senior Scientist Dr. Shanna Swan comments on this study in NPR' recent report: Plastic junk? Researchers find tiny particles in men's testicles. Dr. Swan points out that microplastic research is just beginning, and that quality control measures need to be addressed before we can accurately draw conclusions about microplastics and health.
- See Stephen Colbert’s take on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
Jamie Hu, Chelin et al. for Toxicological Sciences. May 15, 2024
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