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Presence of microplastics in human stomachs
Sait Özsoy1, Sedat Gündogdu2, Sermet Sezigen3
1Department of Forensic Medicine, Gulhane School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey; Council of Forensic Medicine, Ankara Branch, Ankara, Turkey.
Abstract:
This study presents the first definitive confirmation of microplastic presence in the human stomach, based on samples from 26 cadavers. 97 microplastic particles were extracted from stomach contents, across all 26 individuals, revealing a universal prevalence of microplastics in the cadavers. Morphological analysis of the extracted particles unveiled distinct shapes, with fibers constituting the majority (52.04 %), followed by fragments (39.80 %) and films (8.16 %). The average quantity of microplastics per individual was calculated to be 9.4 ± 10.4 particles, with an estimated daily intake of microplastics at 32.2 particles per day. These figures are lower than estimates derived from both daily microplastic consumption alone and notably, those calculated from stool analyses. Our study also suggests that the breakdown or transformation of microplastics cannot be ruled out during their passage through the digestive tract. Although the number of microplastics in stomach contents reported in this study was even lower than the daily microplastic intake rates reported in the literature, it provides conclusive evidence for the presence of microplastics in the human stomach and provides important preliminary data in terms of the risks that may arise for human health.
Insights
Microplastics are universally present in the human stomach, confirmed in 26 cadavers. This study provides crucial evidence on microplastic prevalence and potential health risks.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Human Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Microplastic contamination is a growing global concern.
- Understanding human exposure routes and internal accumulation is vital.
Purpose of the Study:
- To definitively confirm the presence of microplastics in the human stomach.
- To quantify microplastic particles and analyze their morphology in stomach contents.
- To provide preliminary data on potential human health risks associated with microplastic ingestion.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of stomach contents from 26 human cadavers.
- Extraction and quantification of microplastic particles.
- Morphological characterization of identified microplastic particles (fibers, fragments, films).
Main Results:
- Microplastics were found in all 26 cadavers, confirming universal prevalence.
- A total of 97 microplastic particles were extracted, with fibers being the most common type (52.04%).
- Average microplastic count per individual was 9.4 particles, lower than estimated daily intake rates.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first definitive evidence of microplastic presence in the human stomach.
- Observed microplastic levels are lower than some previous estimates, but internal accumulation is confirmed.
- Further research is needed to understand the breakdown of microplastics in the digestive tract and associated health implications.
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