Microplastics Found in Plaques, 50 Times More Abundant Than in Healthy Arteries

Small-scale research discovers potential connection between microplastics and cardiovascular health.

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Tiny plastic particles are showing up in human arteries, with 50 times higher levels in those with blockages, potentially adding plastic pollution to the list of threats to cardiovascular health, according to a new study.

While microplastics are tiny at less than 5 millimeters, nanoplastics are microscopic—less than 1,000 nanometers—so small they can make their way into human tissues.