Scientists at the University Hospital of Larissa in Thessaly, Greece, have reported that patients diagnosed with lung cancer are more likely to have microplastic particles in their lungs and tend to carry a larger overall burden of these tiny plastics.
Study details
The investigation examined 100 individuals undergoing bronchoscopy for lung‑related symptoms. Half of the participants were later diagnosed with lung cancer, while the other half were not. Researchers collected lung‑wash samples—saline used to rinse a portion of the lung—and, for many patients, a small tissue sample as well. All samples were analyzed for the presence and type of microplastics.
Overall, 70% of the participants had detectable microplastics in at least one sample. When lung‑wash and tissue results were combined, cancer patients showed a higher detection rate (66% versus 46% for non‑cancer patients) and a greater total microplastic burden.
What the findings suggest
Dr. Ilias Dimeas, the study’s lead author, noted that while microplastics have become an unavoidable part of the environment, little is known about how they behave once inhaled. “Our results suggest that inhaled microplastics can be found in the human lung more frequently than many people may realize,” he said.
The researchers observed that patients with more microplastics in their lung‑wash samples tended to have fewer in tissue samples, indicating that particles may not be evenly distributed throughout the lung.
Types of plastics identified
Analysis showed that polypropylene and polyethylene were the most common microplastics detected. These polymers are widely used in everyday items such as packaging, textiles, and household goods.
Implications and next steps
While the study does not prove that microplastics cause lung cancer, it raises important questions about whether these particles could contribute to inflammation or other biological processes that promote disease. Dr. Dimeas emphasized that further laboratory work is already underway to understand how specific plastics interact with lung cells.
Additional research will also examine patients with chronic lung conditions to determine whether microplastics play a role in lung scarring and disease progression.
Expert commentary
Barbara Hoffmann, chair of the European Respiratory Society Advocacy Council, highlighted that air pollution, including microplastic contamination, is an emerging concern for respiratory health. She reiterated that smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, but that clean‑air initiatives should also address plastic particles in the atmosphere.
Both researchers and public‑health advocates stress the need for more studies to clarify the potential health risks of inhaled microplastics and to guide policies aimed at reducing plastic pollution.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
