Micronanoplastics Linked to Stroke Risk, Study Reveals

By Adebowale Bello. B.Tech Microbiology, Freelance Health Writer. Medically reviewed by: A. Odutola, MBBS, PhD, FRCSEd.

Extensive plastic waste dump sites are common across African cities. Click on image to expand.

The impact of plastic waste on human health continues to raise alarm, particularly as research sheds light on the presence of plastic particles in unexpected places.

Although recent research showed that microplastics can enter the bloodstream through intravenous infusion bags, however a new study has uncovered additional troubling facts; micronanoplastics which are tiny fragments of plastic waste, may indeed be accumulating in fatty deposits in the neck's blood vessels leading to serious health problems such as stroke.

This discovery not only raises questions about the safety of our environment but also highlights a potential new health risk that could affect millions of people across the world including Africa.

About the Study

The research, conducted by a team from the University of New Mexico, USA, focused on carotid arteries, which are the blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain. These arteries can develop plaques, which are fatty substances that narrow and harden the blood vessels, potentially causing life-threatening conditions like strokes.

The study examined tissue samples from people with carotid artery disease, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries.

What the Study Found

The study found that the amount of micronanoplastics in the plaque of people with carotid artery disease was significantly higher compared to people with healthy arteries.

This increase in plastic particles raises serious concerns about how the materials might contribute to cardiovascular diseases, which are already a major health problem in many African countries.

The nanoplastic particles were:

• 16 times higher in plaques among people with clogged arteries but no health problems.

• 51 times higher in plaques from people who had experienced a stroke or temporary vision loss due to clogged arteries. 

The findings suggest that micronanoplastics may play a role in the progression of artery clogging diseases, which are prevalent worldwide.

Interestingly, the study also examined the effects of these plastics on the body's immune system and inflammation. Although there was no direct link between the presence of plastics and sudden inflammation, researchers noticed that the plastic particles seemed to affect some immune cells.

These immune cells, known as macrophages, help to stabilize plaques in the arteries but the presence of plastic seemed to reduce their activity, which could contribute to plaque instability and potential vessel rupture.

What This Means for Africans

While the study population are non-Africans, its conclusions cannot be said to directly apply to people in Africa.

Notwithstanding, the study presents a new challenge for public health stakeholders worldwide, highlighting the potential risks of micronanoplastics, which are prevalent in the environment in many African countries, where plastic pollution is widespread, and waste management systems are inadequate. In effect, Africans may be unknowingly exposed to these harmful particles through their food and water supply as suggested by the research and hence bearing increased risk of heart disease and strokes.

How African Governments Can Respond

The findings of this study should serve as a wake-up call for African governments, health organisations and citizens alike. While it may be difficult to completely eliminate exposure to micronanoplastics, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risks:

1. Improved Waste Management: Governments should invest in better waste management infrastructure to reduce plastic waste in the environment. This would not only help reduce plastic pollution but also decrease the amount of plastic entering the food and water supply.   

2. Public Education: Raising awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution and its potential health impacts is crucial. Educational campaigns should inform people about the risks of plastic exposure, particularly in areas where plastic waste is most prevalent.   

3. Support for Research: Governments and research institutions should fund studies that investigate the links between plastic pollution and health outcomes, particularly in relation to heart disease and strokes. This will help build a stronger evidence base for policy making and health interventions.   

4. Health Monitoring and Prevention: People who are at risk of cardiovascular diseases should be regularly monitored for early signs of plaque buildup in their arteries. Preventive measures, such as improving diet and increasing physical activity, can help reduce the risk of stroke and other heart-related conditions.

Wrap Up

While the study’s results are still in the early stages and require further research, it is clear that the presence of these tiny plastic particles in the body is something that needs to be taken seriously. For Africans, this is yet another reason to address the growing issue of plastic waste and its effects on human health.

As this research develops, it is essential that African countries take action to reduce plastic pollution and protect public health. In the meantime, individuals can take steps to protect themselves by staying informed, advocating for better waste management practices, and supporting efforts to reduce plastic consumption.

Source: American Heart Association News Release

Related: IV Fluid Bags May Pose Hidden Microplastics Risk to Patients, Study Warns

Published: May 18, 2025

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