Microplastics in Lungs Could Lead to Malignant Tumors: Study

Exposure to microscopic plastic particles, which have become ubiquitous in the environment, may trigger changes in lung cells that are usually linked to cancer.

A new report by researchers from the University of Vienna raises serious concerns about the health risks associated with microplastics and nanoplastics, indicating that exposure may trigger healthy cells to produce cancerous ones.

According to the findings published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials on July 2, analysis showed that healthy cells absorbed more microplastic particles than cancerous ones, leading to increased DNA damage that may trigger cancer development.

Microplastics are fragments of plastic less than 5 millimeters wide, about the size of a pencil eraser. Nanoplastics are even smaller, measuring under 1,000 nanometers, or far thinner than a human hair. Both are created when larger plastic items like bottles and food containers break down over time, and they have become ubiquitous in the environment of the past few decades.

These particles can enter the body through food, water or air, and may build up in organs once absorbed. Researchers say they can trigger inflammation, disrupt hormone function, and now appear to cause DNA damage linked to cancer.

In the new study, a team of Austrian researchers studied the effects of polystyrene micro- and nanoplastics in the human lungs.

The researchers, led by Dr. Karin Schelch, examined the impact of plastic particles using two different sizes, 0.25 micrometers (µm) and 1 µm. They tested the effects on two types of lung cancer cells and normal lung cells, as well as on human-derived lung cell cultures.

According to the findings, plastic particles triggered changes in healthy lung cells that are linked with the development of cancer. The healthy cells showed increased cell migration, DNA damage, oxidative stress, and the activation of signaling pathways that promote cell growth and the survival of cells. All these processes are considered early indicators of cancer development.

The researchers also concluded microplastics triggered the antioxidant defense systems of the cell. This indicates the cells are attempting to defend against outside stress caused by the plastic particles.

Healthy cells absorbed more microparticles of plastic than cancerous cells. The healthy cells exhibited a more pronounced response to microplastic exposure. Additionally, the microplastics reduced the healthy cells ability to repair DNA damage.

Polystyrene is widely used in everyday objects, including food packaging and disposable items such as to-go coffee cups and yogurt cups. Schelch’s team warns this suggests microplastics may have a greater negative effect on human health than previously believed.

Microplastics Health Concerns

These latest findings follow similar concerns expressed by French researchers earlier this year, who warned that tap water and bottled water often contain microplastics small enough to infiltrate the bloodstream and organs. The French researchers indicated that once in the body, microplastics could cause cancer, hormonal changes, damage to the immune system, and damage to the respiratory system.

Other studies have confirmed the presence of microplastics in the human body. Data published by Brazilian researchers in 2024 concluded microplastics are accumulating in the brain. The study showed the particles are specifically accumulating in the olfactory bulb, which controls the sense of smell. In addition, findings published this year by researchers from the University of New Mexico found that microplastics are accumulating in the brain more rapidly than other organs. They estimated the average human brain may contain up to 7 grams of micro- and nanoplastics.

Another study published in June of last year determined microplastics are commonly found in human testicles. They indicated the particles could have detrimental effects on male fertility, reducing sperm count and causing other reproductive problems.

Microplastics Lawsuits

With more being learned about microplastics and their impact on the human body, a growing number of consumers are filing lawsuits against some of the largest contributors to microplastic exposure.

In May, a class action lawsuit was filed against S.C. Johnson, alleging Ziploc products can release dangerous microplastics under extreme temperatures, like in freezers and microwaves. However, the plastic baggies are marketed as safe to use in both the microwave and the freezer.

Another lawsuit claims WaterWipes baby wipes contain microplastics that can breakdown and pose a risk to newborns and babies. Plaintiffs argue the company’s promotion of the products as the “world’s purest baby wipes” was false and misleading due to the presence of harmful microplastics.

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