Marine Microplastics and Diabetes Link

A new study has found a correlation between marine microplastic pollution and higher rates of chronic diseases in nearby coastal populations in the U.S.

Study Details:

• Microplastic samples were taken within 370 km of the U.S. shoreline.

• Health data from 152 coastal counties were analyzed.

Key Findings (after adjusting for age, sex, healthcare access, socio-economic, environmental, and racial factors):

• 18% higher prevalence of type-2 diabetes

• 7% more coronary artery disease

• 9% more stroke cases in counties with high microplastic levels

• Suggests microplastic pollution may be a new environmental risk factor for non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.