Human Exposure to Airborne Microplastics: A Study on Detection and Potential Health Effects Using BAL Fluid

Airborne microplastics have emerged as a potential environmental health hazard, with increasing evidence of their presence in urban air. This study aimed to detect microplastic particles in human bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and assess associated respiratory health impacts.

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 adult patients undergoing diagnostic bronchoscopy. BAL fluid was collected and analyzed using polarized light microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy to identify microplastics. Inflammatory markers and pulmonary function tests were recorded and compared between individuals with and without detectable microplastics.

Microplastics were detected in 70% of BAL samples, with polyethylene (52.4%) and polypropylene (31.0%) being the most common polymers. Participants with microplastic exposure showed significantly lower mean FEV1 values (66.3%) compared to nonexposed individuals (82.7%). Inflammatory markers such as neutrophils and eosinophils were also elevated in the exposed group. A higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms was noted among those with detectable microplastics.

The study highlights the presence of inhaled microplastics in the lower respiratory tract and their potential association with inflammation and impaired lung function. These findings emphasize the need for monitoring environmental exposure and assessing long-term health risks.