Introduction: The Hidden Threat of Microplastics
Invisible to the naked eye but widespread in the environment, microplastics have become a new frontier in public health concerns. Since being named by scientists in 2004, these plastic fragments under 5 millimeters in diameter have been recognized not just as a marine pollutant but as pervasive contaminants infiltrating air, water, food, and even our bodies. Their chemical stability allows them to persist in nature for hundreds of years, posing significant risks to ecosystems and human health alike. This article explores how microplastics enter the human body, the potential damage they cause, hidden sources we might overlook, and steps we can take to reduce exposure.
