A new study from the University of New Mexico has found that the average human brain contains about 7 grams of microplastics—the same weight as a plastic spoon. Researchers discovered that the amount of these tiny plastic particles in the brain increased significantly between 2016 and 2024, with the highest levels found in people who had dementia. While microplastics were also detected in the liver and kidneys, the brain contained seven to 30 times more, raising serious health concerns

The study, published in Nature Medicine, suggests that microplastics may build up more in the brain because it doesn’t have the same filtering systems as the liver and kidneys. Scientists also believe that because the brain is about 60% fat, plastic particles may stick to it more easily. Although the blood-brain barrier is designed to protect against harmful substances, researchers were surprised to find large amounts of microplastics inside. This raises the possibility that these particles could cause long-term inflammation in the brain, similar to how asbestos affects the lungs.

While it’s not yet clear how dangerous microplastics in the brain are, experts are worried because exposure to plastic in our environment keeps increasing. There is no direct evidence yet that links microplastics to diseases like dementia, but the fact that they are more concentrated in people with dementia is concerning. Children and older adults may be at higher risk because their brains are either still developing or less protected. Researchers stress the need for further studies, but early evidence suggests microplastics could pose serious health risks.

SOURCE:
USA Today, February 3, 2025