Abstract

MICROPLASTICS AND HUMAN HEALTH CONCERNS: AN ACADEMIC REVIEW

*Shubham Panwar, Dr. J. S. Vaghela

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Abstract

Microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, have emerged as pervasive environmental contaminants with growing implications for human health. Their widespread occurrence in air, food, water, and consumer products, coupled with their ability to adsorb hazardous chemicals and penetrate biological systems, positions MPs as a pressing public health concern. Experimental and epidemiological evidence suggests potential adverse effects mediated through oxidative stress, inflammation, endocrine disruption, and organ-specific toxicity. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the sources and exposure pathways of MPs, their biological interactions, and their health impacts, while emphasizing existing research gaps and future directions.

Keywords: Microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, have emerged as pervasive environmental contaminants with growing implications for human health.