We’ve all cut down on plastic straws to save the sea turtles, but what about ourselves? A recent AHA study suggests there could be a link between ocean microplastic levels and cardiovascular disease in U.S. coastal counties, adding to a concerning trend of microplastics and CV risk.
- Microplastics are particles smaller than 5mm stemming from the breakdown of larger plastic debris.
- They contaminate marine environments, food chains, and human tissues, contributing to adverse health effects.
- Estimates vary for just how much microplastic we ingest, but some research suggests people may consume tens of thousands of particles annually.
Researchers analyzed counties near waters with high and low microplastic concentrations, and found that populations living near microplastic dense coastlines faced significantly higher rates of…
- Type 2 diabetes (+18%).
- Coronary artery disease (+7%).
- and stroke (+9%).
Zooming in to the regions researchers tested, there were clear differences in microplastic concentrations when comparing America’s Atlantic and Pacific coasts.
- For starters, the average ocean microplastic concentration was significantly higher along the Atlantic coast compared to the Pacific coast (122 pieces/m3 vs. 0.003 pieces/m3).
- As a result, the mean prevalence of T2D, CAD, and stroke was higher in the counties located along the Atlantic Coast (T2D: 11.88%, CAD: 7.31%, and stroke: 3.54%) compared to the Pacific Coast (T2D: 10.62%, CAD: 6.87%, and stroke: 3.23%).
- The worst coastal region was the Gulf Coast, which saw the most concerning health outcomes compared to both (T2D: 12.89%, CAD: 8.83%, and stroke: 4.15%).
These unfortunate results build on a 2024 NEJM study that revealed many patients with carotid artery disease have microplastics embedded in their carotid plaque.
- Patients with microplastics in their plaque faced a massive 4.5-fold greater risk of heart attack, stroke, or death within three years.
The Takeaway
Whether you’re a climate activist or an oil tycoon, it’s most likely you have a heart, and filling it with microplastics probably isn’t going to help you live longer. This study reaffirms that the health of our environment directly impacts our health, and no amount of pharmaceuticals or interventional devices will replace a healthy planet.
