Microplastics in Everyday Life: From Chewing Gum to Human Prostate Tissue

How to Reduce Your Exposure to Harmful Microplastics (YouTube link)

Chewing Gum: A New Source of Microplastic Exposure

Plastic has become an unavoidable part of daily life, embedded in everyday items like cutting boards, clothing, and cleaning sponges. These products can shed tiny, micrometer-wide plastic particles known as microplastics (MPs), exposing people to them in ways they may not even realize. Now, researchers have uncovered yet another unexpected source—chewing gum.

In a recent pilot study,^[3] scientists found that chewing gum can release hundreds to thousands of microplastics per piece into saliva, where they may ultimately be ingested. This discovery highlights how even seemingly harmless habits can contribute to human exposure to these tiny plastic particles, raising new questions about their potential health effects.

Microplastics in Human Prostate Tissue

In a 2024 study,^[1] researchers explored the presence and characteristics of microplastics in human prostate tissues, aiming to uncover potential connections between microplastic accumulation and prostate cancer. Researchers utilized LDIR, SEM and Py–GC/MS techniques to identify and quantify MPs in the prostate samples.

The investigation focused on both tumor tissues and para-tumor (adjacent non-cancerous tissues), recognizing that the impact of microplastics on prostate health remains poorly understood.

Findings

• Microplastic Presence: Microplastics, including polyamide (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), were found in both para-tumor and tumor prostate tissues. Polystyrene (PS) was detected only in tumor tissues.
• Size and Shape: Microplastic particles ranged from 20–100 μm. Para-tumor tissues had 31.58% of particles in the 20–30 μm range, while tumor tissues had 35.21% in the 50–100 μm range. Irregular shapes were predominant.
• Abundance: Microplastic concentrations were higher in tumor tissues (mean 290.3 μg/g) than in para-tumor tissues (mean 181.0 μg/g). Among 11 targeted polymer types, only polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and PVC were detected, with PS, PE, and PVC showing significantly higher abundance in tumor tissues compared to para-tumor tissues.
• Correlations: A positive correlation was found between polystyrene abundance in tumor tissues and the frequency of take-out food consumption.

Summary

The findings suggest that microplastics may accumulate in the prostate and could be associated with prostate cancer. However, the mechanisms and processes responsible for the presence of MPs in human tumor systems remain unknown. Future studies are necessary to better understand the dynamic interplay and potential causal connections between MPs and prostate health over time.

References

1. Identification and analysis of microplastics in para-tumor and tumor of human prostate
2. These 3 Things Help Excrete Microplastics, BPA, & Phthalates (YouTube link)
3. Chewing gum can shed microplastics into saliva, pilot study finds

5 Foods to Boost Your Body's Defense Against Cancer

5 Foods That Help Fight Against Cancer & Repair The Body (YouTube link)

5 Cancer-Fighting Foods

In the video above, Dr. William Li explores five foods that may have cancer-fighting potential:

1. Green tea: Contains catechins, which can lower inflammation and cut off the blood supply to tumors.
2. Brassicas: Vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, rich in sulforaphane, which can boost the immune system and inhibit tumor growth.
3. Papaya: Contains carotenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties.
4. Purple potatoes: Rich in anthocyanins, which can lower inflammation and target cancer stem cells.
5. Pomegranate: Contains ellagitannins, which can inhibit tumor growth and support gut health.

Consuming a variety of whole, unprocessed foods rich in bioactive compounds like catechins, sulforaphane, carotenoids, and ellagitannins as part of a balanced diet can contribute to overall health and cancer prevention, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any underlying health concerns.