314 - The Fiber You Didn't Know: An Introduction to Micro- and Nano-plastics and Their Impact on Health

In early 2024, a study of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) in human carotid artery plaque specimens made headlines by showing as a much as four-fold increased risk for myocardial infarction, stroke, or death from any cause among those patients with MNPs detected. This study caught the attention of both medical professionals and the public, but it was just one of several in recent months to detect MNPs in human tissues such as cardiac, testicular, penile, and placental. These publications have raised awareness of the potential harmful effects of plastic use and MNP ingestion. This session seeks to introduce OEM clinicians to the present understanding of how MNPs harm the environment and human health. A case-based approach will be utilized to introduce topics to include current environmental impact, current understanding of MNPs toxicokinetics to include sources and routes of exposure, health effects identified in MNPs workers, and recent studies of human tissues containing MNPs. The session will also discuss potential options for OEM clinicians to discuss responsible plastic use, both as population health clinicians, as well as consumers.