Microplastics Linked to Heart Disease

A 2024 study in The New England Journal of Medicine involving more than 300 participants revealed a significant association between carotid artery plaque containing micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) and an increased risk of heart attack, stroke or death.

A subsequent cross-sectional study published this year in the European Heart Journal further evaluated the relationship between plastic pollution and cardiovascular health. The study involved 61 participants suspected of having coronary artery disease who underwent coronary angiography—a specialized X-ray test that uses contrast dye to visualize blood flow through the arteries. The participants were categorized into three groups based on the angiography results: severe, life-threatening heart attack caused by coronary artery blockage; chronic coronary disease (CCD); and normal coronary arteries (control group).

Researchers measured the concentration of MNPs in the coronary and surrounding blood of each patient. MNPs were detected more frequently, in higher concentrations and with greater diversity, in the heart attack group (84.2 percent) compared to the CCD (40 percent) and control (31.8 percent) groups. Detection of MNPs was also associated with elevated inflammatory markers. Notably, MNPs were more frequently detected in smokers and those exposed to air pollution. The co-authors of the study noted the significant impact of lifestyle choices and exposure to pollutants on heart health.