Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026
10:16
Protocol for Microplastics Sampling on the Sea Surface and Sample Analysis
Published on: December 16, 2016
49.5K
Exploring alternatives for detecting microplastics in the human body: questionnaire survey
Yanrong Wang1, Yongbin Zhu1, Justino Jose Capapelo1
1Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China.
Scientific Reports
|October 8, 2024
Summary
Questionnaire surveys effectively assess microplastic (MP) exposure, mirroring fecal sample results. This study demonstrates questionnaires as a reliable epidemiological tool for evaluating MP ingestion from disposable plastic tableware.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Microplastic (MP) ingestion is a growing concern due to widespread plastic use.
- Assessing population-level MP exposure requires reliable epidemiological tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of questionnaire surveys in assessing microplastic exposure.
- To compare microplastic levels in individuals using disposable plastic tableware versus non-disposable alternatives.
Main Methods:
- A quasi-experimental study involving exposure and control groups.
- Participants completed questionnaires and provided fecal samples.
- Bland-Altman analysis assessed consistency between measurement methods.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant differences in MP quantity and types (EVA, PET, PVB, CPE, phenolic epoxy resin) were observed between exposure and post-exposure groups.
- Bland-Altman analysis showed good consistency between questionnaire surveys and fecal sample detection across all groups.
- Questionnaire surveys demonstrated reliability in evaluating microplastic particle exposure.
Conclusions:
- Questionnaire surveys are a viable and consistent method for assessing microplastic exposure in large populations.
- This finding supports the use of epidemiological tools for monitoring microplastic ingestion.
- Reducing exposure through disposable plastic tableware may impact microplastic levels.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:31Plasticizers
Water-reducers, or plasticizers, are chemical admixtures used in concrete to improve strength and workability. These additives reduce the water-cement ratio without compromising workability, lower the cement content while maintaining the same workability, or increase workability to assist concrete placement in inaccessible areas.
Plasticizers function by using surface-active agents to create repulsive electrostatic forces between cement particles. This dispersion enhances the concrete's...
Plasticizers function by using surface-active agents to create repulsive electrostatic forces between cement particles. This dispersion enhances the concrete's...
01:27Bioplastics
Bioplastics derived from microbial processes present a sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics. Among these, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), particularly polyhydroxybutyrates (PHBs), have emerged as prominent candidates due to their biodegradability and biocompatibility. These polymers are synthesized by a variety of bacteria, such as Cupriavidus necator and Pseudomonas putida, which naturally accumulate PHAs as intracellular carbon and energy reserves, especially under...
01:28Microbial Bioremediation of Plastics
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a synthetic polymer widely utilized in the packaging industry, particularly for bottles and containers. Due to its chemical stability and durability, PET accumulates in the environment, contributing significantly to plastic pollution. It comprises repeating units of terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol, resulting in a semi-crystalline structure that is resistant to natural degradation processes.A notable breakthrough in plastic biodegradation came with the...