Chemical Companies Aware of Microplastics Risks for Decades

• •Chemical companies have known about microplastics' health risks since at least 1974.
• •Research indicates microplastics can infiltrate human organs and tissues.
• •Recent studies link microplastics to serious health issues, including cancer and heart disease.

Recent investigations reveal that chemical companies have known about the health risks posed by microplastics for over 50 years. Internal memos obtained by the Los Angeles Times show that industry scientists were concerned about microplastics infiltrating human tissues as early as 1974. Research presented by German scientist Gerhard Volkheimer indicated that ingested PVC could enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs. Despite this knowledge, the industry has not taken significant action to mitigate these risks. Current studies link microplastics to serious health issues, including heart disease and cancer, but the exact mechanisms remain under investigation. The recent findings coincide with a study published in Nature, which provides strong evidence of biological damage caused by microplastics. Public health concerns are escalating as microplastics are found in various consumables and environments.