For the first time, scientists have found microplastics in human penile tissue, heightening concerns about the proliferation of these tiny particles and their potential health effects. The discovery was part of a study published in IJIR: Your Sexual Medicine Journal.
Researchers detected seven different kinds of microplastics in four out of five penile tissue samples taken from five men. These samples were collected from patients diagnosed with erectile dysfunction (ED) who underwent surgery for penile implants at the University of Miami between August and September 2023.
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Microplastics, which are polymer fragments ranging from less than 0.2 inches (5 millimeters) to as small as 1/25,000th of an inch (1 micrometer), form when larger plastics degrade. Some particles can invade cells and tissues in major organs, raising alarms about their increasing presence in human bodies.
Lead author Ranjith Ramasamy, a reproductive urology expert, used previous research on microplastics in the human heart as a foundation for this study. Ramasamy noted that finding microplastics in the penis was not surprising due to its vascular nature, similar to the heart.
Chemical imaging analysis revealed the presence of microplastics in four out of five penile tissue samples, with polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP) being the most common. Ramasamy emphasized the need for further research to determine if there is a link between microplastics and ED and to identify specific types and levels of microplastics that may cause pathology.
Ramasamy hopes this study will raise awareness about the presence of foreign bodies in human organs and encourage further research. Previous studies have shown high levels of plastic particles in bottled water, suggesting potential widespread exposure.
Toxicologist Matthew J. Campen, who was not involved in the study, described the findings as “concerning” and highlighted the potential physical disruption microplastics could cause to bodily functions, including those related to erection and sperm production. Campen’s previous research found that human testicles contain significantly higher levels of microplastics compared to animal testicles.
Experts suggest reducing exposure to microplastics by using stainless steel and glass containers, avoiding microwaving food or beverages in plastic, and refraining from putting plastic in dishwashers, as heat can cause chemicals to leach out. Dr. Leonardo Trasande of NYU Langone Health, emphasizes the importance of these precautions to mitigate potential health risks.
