A recent scoping review, led by Research Fellow Adrian Goldsworthy from the Wesley Research Institute and Critical Care Research Group, has raised concerns about the presence of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the human cardiovascular system. These tiny plastic particles, often smaller than a grain of sand, are increasingly being reported in places they don’t belong – our blood, heart tissue and arteries. This review, which carefully analysed 46 previously published studies, highlights potential links between MNPs and heart-related health issues, calling for further investigation.
What Is a Scoping Review?
A scoping review doesn’t involve new experiments. Instead, it systematically gathers and summarises existing research to provide a clear picture of what’s known about a topic. In this case, the review focused on studies exploring MNPs (microplastics are less than 5 mm) and nanoplastics (even smaller) – and their effects on the heart and blood vessels.
Key Findings
The review revealed that MNPs have been detected in human venous blood, heart tissue, blood clots, and the fatty plaques that can clog arteries (atherosclerotic plaques). Notably, one study found that patients with MNPs in their artery plaques faced a higher risk of heart attack, stroke or death over a three-year period compared to those without plastics. Other research showed MNPs in the veins of heart surgery patients and in clots raising questions about how they may contribute to the world’s largest killer, cardiovascular disease.
Why Are Plastics in Our Bodies?
Increasingly, research around the world is highlighting the concern that nanoplastic particles may accumulate in humans as a result of their presence in the air we breathe and the food and drink that we ingest. Currently, the ongoing research conducted by Adrian Goldsworthy is seeking to understand how medical devices may lead to tiny plastic particles and chemicals entering into patients during cardiac surgery.
How Might MNPs Affect Heart Health?
Laboratory studies summarised in the review suggest MNPs could harm the cardiovascular system in several ways. They may irritate blood vessels, promote inflammation, and eventually lead to atherosclerotic plaques, more commonly referred to as clogged arteries – all risk factors for heart disease. Some research indicates MNPs could damage heart cells or contribute to conditions like arrythmias or heart failure. There’s even early evidence suggesting a possible role in congenital heart defects or heart infections, though more research is needed to confirm these links.
Why This Matters
Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of illness and death worldwide, including in Australia. The discovery of MNPs in the human body challenges earlier assumptions, such as a 2019 World Health Organisation report that downplayed their health risks. This review highlights the urgent need to better understand if and how MNPs contribute to heart problems to reduce exposure and develop solutions.
Looking Ahead
The findings highlight significant gaps in our knowledge. We need more studies to determine the full extent of MNP-related health risks and to develop strategies for reducing plastic pollution. Clinicians may eventually need guidance on managing patients affected by MNPs, while public health policies could play a role in limiting exposure.
At Wesley Research Institute, we’re dedicated to research that delivers real-world impact, empowering communities with knowledge to live healthier lives. This scoping review is a critical step toward understanding an emerging threat to cardiovascular health.
For more details, refer to the full study, published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology (DOI: 10.1038/s41370-025-00766-2).