Microplastics linked to heart risk

A new study has found that people who survived a heart attack had higher levels of tiny plastic particles known as microplastics and nanoplastics in their blood.

The findings suggest that plastic pollution could be an overlooked risk factor for heart disease.

Researchers from the University of Campania in Italy also discovered that smokers and people who are regularly exposed to air pollution had higher amounts of these plastic particles in their blood.

The study published in the European Heart Journal found that 84% of heart attack patients had microplastics and nanoplastics in the arteries that supply blood to the heart.

In comparison these particles were found in 40% of people with chronic ischemic heart disease and 32% of people with healthy coronary arteries.

Experts explained that microplastics and nanoplastics are extremely small plastic particles released from everyday items such as plastic packaging clothing and other plastic products.

Researchers said the study does not prove that these plastic particles directly cause heart attacks.  However the findings add to growing evidence that they may affect heart health and more research is needed to better understand their impact.