The impact of environmental microplastics as emerging carcinogens: A public health concern

Abstract

Microplastics, small plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have become common in the environment and occur in air, water, and food sources. Possible effects on human health, particularly as carcinogens, have become a growing concern. This review aims to investigate the mechanisms by which microplastics may contribute to cancer development and the implications for public health. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on studies from 2010 to 2024. The data were collected from various sources, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus. The key areas examined include biological mechanisms of carcinogenesis, human exposure pathways, and risk assessment models. Microplastics can induce carcinogenesis through multiple pathways, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular damage pathways. Research both in vivo and in vitro has demonstrated that microplastics can cause DNA damage and disrupt cellular processes, potentially leading to cancer. Human exposure occurs primarily through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact in the absence of data, and epidemiological studies indicate a link between increased levels of microplastic exposure and a greater risk of cancer. Microplastics represent a coming class of environmental carcinogens with significant public health implications. More investigations are needed to completely explain their carcinogenic mechanisms and to develop effective strategies to reduce human exposure. Public health policies must evolve to mitigate the risks connected with microplastic pollution, protecting future generations from its potential health impacts.