Disclaimer:
Our goal is to educate. We are not medical professionals or chemical scientists. While we research thoroughly, we cannot guarantee the exhaustiveness or correctness of the information in this article. If you or someone else has symptoms related to any of the conditions mentioned, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
The Hidden Threat From Plastic Pollution
Plastic has long flooded our planet and the terrible effects are undeniable. The effects of environmental pollution through plastic are well documented and reach from economic costs to the agonizing death of sea animals and climate impact.
But not only the planet is suffering from plastic pollution. It also affects human health. Especially during the last 10 years, more and more studies have been painting a worrying picture about the hidden threat behind plastic.
The widespread use of plastic in food, personal care and literally every other area of our lives has lead to an increased exposure of humans to microplastics and plastic-related chemicals.
Today, plastic-related chemicals can already be found in human blood, lungs, and even brains. Wherever they are found in the human body, it does not belong there.
In fact, plastic-related chemicals cost the U.S. approximately $249 billion in 2018 due to the disease burden and disability they cause?
A recent groundbreaking meta-study by the minderoo foundation has analyzed more than 3500 scientific publications about plastic-associated chemicals and their potential health impacts on humans.
The results of the study are published in a Plastic Health Map, which groups publications based on the studied chemicals and their impact on human health.
It presents the most comprehensive database available to public that shows how much plastic really poisons our bodies.
We have spent more than two months skimming through the database to give you an accessible summary of the health impacts found by researchers and give you a little more background and explanation about the sometimes very medical language.
We will start by explaining the main chemicals analyzed and where they can be found. Then we dive into the health effects of these chemicals in alphabetical order by body part (from B like blood to V like Visual system).
Toxic Chemicals in Plastic
Bisphenols
Bisphenols are a class of industrial chemicals primarily used in the manufacturing of various plastics and resins. Among other reasons, it is used to harden plastic. The most well-known bisphenol is bisphenol A (BPA), which has been widely used since the 1960s and has since been involved in various scandals because of its toxicity. Other Bisphenols like BPF and BPS can still be widely found in various products.
Organophosphate esters (OPEs)
OPEs are a class of organophosphorus compounds that are widely used as flame retardants and plasticizers in various products. OPEs, like other flame retardants are added into plastic mechanically and can thus leach into the environment more easily.
PBBs (Polybrominated Biphenyls)
PBBs (polybrominated biphenyls) are a class of brominated hydrocarbon chemicals that were formerly used as flame retardants in various consumer products such as plastics, textiles, and electronic devices. They are banned in many countries, but can still be found in consumer wased from old products. North America banned these flame retardants after a scandal in the 1970s where PBBs contaminated vast agricultural areas in Michigan.
PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls)
PCBs are a group of man-made chemicals that were widely used in electrical equipment, plastics, and other products. They are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that bioaccumulate in the food chain and have been linked to cancer and other health effects in humans. PCBs are no longer produced in most countries but can still be released into the environment from improper disposal of old products containing PCB.
Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and resilient. They are found in many consumer products like toys, food packaging, cosmetics, and medical devices. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormone function and have been associated with reproductive and developmental effects in animal studies. Exposure occurs primarily through ingestion of contaminated food and dust.
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)
PFAS are a large group of man-made chemicals used in a variety of products like food packaging or nonstick cookware, to prevent food from sticking to surfaces. They are highly persistent in the environment and can bioaccumulate in the food chain. Exposure to PFAS mainly happens by leaking from packaging or cookware. PFAS contamination of drinking water is an emerging public health concern.
PBDEs (Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers)
PBDEs are a class of brominated flame retardants used in plastics, textiles, and electronic equipment. They are persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) chemicals that can disrupt hormone function. PBDEs have been found in human breast milk and blood samples, and exposure has been linked to many health concerns and the use of PBDEs has thus been restricted in many countries.
Other flame retardants, other plasticizers, other mixed use chemicals
Of the 1557 chemicals analyzed by the study, these three categories list the chemicals that could not be grouped into the above specific chemical families. These contain Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) and pentachlorobenzene (PeCB), for example. These two flame retardants have been listed under the Stockholm Convention for phasing out and eventual elimination due to their toxicity and persistence in the environment. HBCDD is mainly used in polystyrene foam insulation materials, as well as in textile coatings and high-impact polystyrene for electrical and electronic equipment. PeCB as well is listed under the Stockholm Convention for phasing out and it can also be produced unintentionally during the manufacture of other chlorinated compounds and as a byproduct of combustion processes.
Where can these chemicals be found?
The potentially deadly chemicals analyzed by the Minderoo researchers can be found in many everyday products. They added to food packaging, toys, medical equipment, electronics and many more.
| Chemical | Common Products |
|---|---|
| Bisphenols | Plastic water bottles, plastic storage containers, thermal paper receipts, food can linings, dental sealants, toys, water pipes |
| Organophosphate esters (OPEs) | Plastics, textiles, electronic devices, furniture, building materials |
| PBBs (Polybrominated Biphenyls) | Plastics, textiles, electronic devices (banned but still found in old products) |
| PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls) | Electrical equipment, plastics, caulking, paints, carbonless copy paper (banned but still released from old products) |
| Phthalates | Toys, food packaging, cosmetics, medical devices, vinyl flooring, adhesives, detergents, lubricating oils, automotive plastics, plastic clothes |
| PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) | Food packaging, nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, carpets, firefighting foams |
| PBDEs (Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers) | Plastics, textiles, electronic equipment (restricted but still found in old products) |
Health Effects of Plastic on the Human Body
The massive study gives you the best overview of all health effects that plastic can cause that you can find in the internet. We've sorted the high-level categories and health conditions within alphabetically.
Blood or Blood-Forming Organs
45 analyzed studies mentioned diseases of the "blood or blood-forming organs". This classification includes health concerns like the number of blood cells in your body, the ability to form clots, or internal bleeding.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Anaemia: found in 10 studies | Studies show that plastic exposure could lead to effects where the body does not have enough red blood cells or they are damaged. As a result, the body cannot transport enough oxygen. |
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| Coagulation Effects (blood clotting): found in 6 studies | Studies found various effects on the body's ability for blood clotting, like reduced or increased clotting and even internal bleeding. |
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| Genetic Effects: found in 2 studies | Research indicates different effects on men and women through the hormone disrupting toxins contained in plastic. Men are more prone to cancer related effects, while women show more immune reactions. Both genders experience increased cancer risk. |
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| Micro Biological Effects: found in 1 study | A worrying study found high blood concentrations of pthalates in low birth-weight infants that had prolonged exposure to medical equipment made of plastic. The blood concentrations correlated with chronic lung disease and sepsis (blood posoning). |
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| Other effects related to blood: 35 | Other studies mainly focused on markers found in human blood, without going into details about the health effects associated with these markers. They found correlations between plastic-related chemcials and cholesterol, liver enzymes, tumor markers, imflammatory markers, and many more. These results support many of the studies below around cardiovascular diseases, cancer, liver diseases, and others. |
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Cancer
There is overwhelming evidence that plastic exposure can lead to vaious kinds of cancer. As part of the plastic health map, 254 included studies analyzed that link and shed light on the many different cancer types that could be linked to plastic-related chemicals.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Breast Cancer: found in 98 studies | Based on the research results, there is evidence that exposure to certain plastic-related chemicals, may be linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Several studies have found that these chemicals act as endocrine-disruptors, interfering with normal hormone function and potentially increasing the risk of hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. Some studies showed a clear link between chemicals exposure and breast cancer, while other results were more mixed. The research results indicate that more research is still needed to fully understand the potential breast cancer risks from exposure to plastic-related chemicals. Minimizing exposure, especially for vulnerable populations like pregnant women and children, is recommended as a precautionary measure. |
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| Cancer in Digestive Organs: found in 24 studies | The studies found associations between exposure to plastic-related chemicals and increased risks of various cancers, including gastric, pancreatic, colorectal, liver, and gallbladder cancer. The research highlights the potential role of environmental pollutants in cancer development, emphasizing the importance of understanding and mitigating exposure to these substances to reduce cancer risk. |
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| Thyroid Cancer: found in 21 studies | The thyroid is a small gland located in the neck that produces important hormones for fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Because plastic-related chemicals disrupt thyroid function, they also increase the risk of cancerous growth. Analyzed studies found that there is a strong link between chemicals like bisphenols and PFAS and thyroid cancer. One study even found that doubly high levels of PFAS chemicals were linked to a 56% increased risk of thyroid cancer diagnosis. |
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| Female genital cancer: found in 36 studies | The studies cited by the plastic health map analyzed impacts of plastic-related chemicals on female genital cancers and fibroids. Particularly, they focused on uterine fibroids, endometrial cancer, and other gynecological disorders. The studies indicate a clear association between exposure to substances such as PBBs, phthalates, bisphenols, and other pollutants with the incidence, growth, and development of uterine leiomyomata (fibroids) and endometrial cancer. |
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| Cancers related to blood formation: found in 27 studies | Studies found an association of plastic-related chemicals with leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), a cancer of the lymphatic system. Investigations reveal potential links between exposure to these chemicals and increased risk of leukemia and NHL. Studies analyze occupational exposure, environmental factors, PCB levels in blood and adipose tissue. Findings suggest higher concentrations of specific chemicals in NHL patients and elevated risk among individuals exposed to waste incinerators. Levels of certain chemicals found in the blood before the diagnosis of cancer show links to NHL and acute myeloid leukemia (a cancer of the blood and bone marrow). These studies collectively underscore the potential health risks posed by chlorinated compounds, emphasizing the importance of further research and regulation. |
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| Cancers of male genital organs: found in 28 studies | Environmental exposure PCBs in showed a correlation with cancer incidence across studies in North America, Europe, and Asia. Especially, concentrations of plastic-related chemicals in blood were associated with testicular cancer risk. Other studies explored the relationship between these chemicals and prostate cancer risk. While the link to testicular cancer risk is strong, other cancers of the male genital organs need to e further explored. |
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| Skin cancer: found in 9 studies | Exposure to plastic has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, specifically cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM), a potentially lethal form of skin cancer. Studies conducted in different regions have found that higher levels of these chemicals in the body are associated with a higher likelihood of developing CMM and benign hyperpigmentation. |
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| Cancers of the urinary system: found in 7 studies | Studies found an accociation between exposure to plastic-associated chemicals and cancer of the urinary system. Blood concentrations of PFAS were linked to renal cell carcinoma risk, a cancer in the kidney. Increased urine phthalate levels were associated with urothelial cancer (cancer of the urinary tract) in individuals with chronic kidney disease. |
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| Other Cancers: found in 27 studies | Other cancer types still need more research, even though there is already concerning evidence. Some studies found a positive association between childhood exposure to plastic-related chemicals and the incidence of osteosarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer with a high fatality rate if not caught early. Studies also found a correlation between exposure to plastic-related chemicals and lung cancer. cardiovascular cancer, and soft tissue cancer. Additionally, some references study the link between those chemicals and cancer in general, supporting the strong evidence that plastic exposure can increase cancer risk, independent of the type of cancer. |
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Circulatory System (e.g. heart, veins)
172 studies revealed adverse effects of plastic on the body's circulatory system. The circulatory system is responsible for moving the blood around your body. it consists of the heart, arteries, capillaries, and veins. Those diseases can for example show as heart attacks or strokes and are often referred to as cardiovascular diseases.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Arterial Disease: found in 20 studies | The analyzed studies indicate that plastic exposure can lead to conditions like arteriosclerosis. That means arteries become thicker and stiff and are at risk of restricting blood flow. This increases the risk for conditions like strokes and heart attacks. |
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| Blood Pressure: found in 116 studies | The research shows that chemicals contained in plastic can cause high blood pressure in all age groups. One study even found that they account for up to 19% of the total attributable risk for high blood pressure. |
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| Heart Disease: found in 22 studies | The cited sources find a correlation between toxins in plastic and heart diseases like coronary heart disease (when the heart does not get enough oxygen through its arteries) and thyroid disease (the body producing too many hormones). |
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| Inflammation / Imflammatory Markers: found in 6 studies | Plastic exposure can lead to oxidative stress and an increase in inflammatory markers. This can lead to many diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis. |
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| Other Measures and Diseases of the Circulatory System: found in 44 studies | Further studies investigated the correlation between chemicals exposure, hypotension (low blood pressure) and unclassified cardiovalscular diseases not fitting into the other categories. The studies were able to show a worrying link between the chemical exposure and mortality risk from cardiovalscular disease (e.g. dying from a heart attack). |
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Developmental Anomalies
The authors found 81 studies that investigated the correlation between the exposure to plastic-related chemicals and developmental issues in infants. These could include a variety of conditions from the brain and spine to the reproductive syystem or even teeth. Exposure to chemicals could be direct (e.g. in the hospital) or indirect (e.g. through the mother's breast milk). These defects are categorized into:
- Structural Anomalies: these are physical birth defects, where the baby's body does not develop normally in the womb.
- Chromosomal Anomalies: these are developmental anomalies related to the number or structure of the human chromosomes, essentially the human DNA. This can include having extra, missing, or irregular chromosomes. One of the most known anomalies is down syndrome, where a human has three copies of their 21st chromosome, instead of two.
- Other Developmental Anomalies: this grouping contains all anomalies that could not be directly related to the other two groups or those that could not be directly linked to a disease. Some studies for example showed higher concentrations of chemicals in the body tissue throughout a childs early life. This can potentially cause a health issue, but the specific studies could not (yet) create that link.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Chromosomal Anomalies: found in 4 studies | Some medical studies found significant differences in the chromosomal structure of babies and fetuses where the mother was often exposed to plastic. The effects ranged from malformed fetuses due to chromosome damage to spontaneous abortion. |
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| Structural Development Issues of the Genitals: found in 64 studies | The analyzed studies showed a variety of different genital development issues. The most frequent ones were underdeveloped testicles, an underdeveloped urethra, and an abnormal distance between the anus and the genitals. Potential investigated causes were mainly related to the endocrine disruptors in plastics. Endocrine disruptors affect the hormone production in the human body. |
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| Structural Development Issues of the Nervous System: found in 6 studies | The studies investigated a relationship between the chemicals and birth defects to the nervous system. Especially so called Neural Tube Defects (NTD). The neural tube is the structure in an early embryo that forms the brain and spine. Babys born with NTD could e.g. have an opening in their back or damaged brains and spines. Unfortunately, NTD are often causing early child death or the fetus dies during pregnancy. |
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| Other Development Issues: found in 11 studies | These studies contained developmental defects that could not be grouped into specific other categories. They included tooth defects like hypomineralisation and caries, child birth defects like heart disease, and hormonal defects to women. |
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Digestive System
This category of studies investigated the effects of plastic-associated chemicals on how well cells in your body break down food, absorb its nutriens, and uses energy from it. The human digestive system is a complex interplay between bodily fluids, hormones, enzymes, bacteria, and proteins all working in synch. It involves not only your stomach and intestines, but relies on the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder. The chemicals in plastic can influence some of these mechanisms and thus lead to problems in your digestion and metabolism. 157 studies were involved in this category
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Cell function/ metabolism measures related to digestive system, excluding liver: found in 2 studies | The two studies in this subcategory investigated the influence of Bisphenols and PFAS on hormones and enzymes. Results show a potential interference of plastic-related chemicals with controlling hunger and satiety. |
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| Cell function/ metabolism measures related to liver: found in 3 studies | The studies in this subcategory investigated the concentration of chemicals in the livers of healthy and deceased adults. Two studies found that plastic-related chemicals could influence the fat tissue in the liver. They even found that PFAS could contribute to the progression of NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease). The effects were stronger in females. Interestingly another study found that PCBs could influence the liver's ability to progress environmental pollutants, while here the influence was stronger on men. |
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| Genetic/epigenetic measures related to digestive system, excluding liver: found in 2 studies | Here, researchers examined how plastics affect genes and the regulation of gene activity (epigenetics) that influence various aspects of digestion, such as the function of the stomach and intestines. The studies found that PCBs can contribute to the mutation of genes and essentially the development of colorectal and pancreatic cancer. |
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| Genetic/epigenetic measures related to liver: found in 3 studies | The studies under this subcategory invstigated how the liver deals with bisphenols. The reasearchers found that the liver has some mechanisms to deals with the chemicals, but increased levels found in the liver were correlated with harm to reproduction and human (fetal) development. This is especially relevant, because many food products contained BPA a few years ago. Even though BPA is banned in many countries, other Bisphenols are replacing it and they can be just as harmful. |
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| Inflammatory markers of digestive system, excluding liver: found in 4 studies | Studies found that bisphenols can lead to gut inflammation and consequentially even the devlopment of Crohn's disease, a chronic condition causing swelling of the tissues (inflammation) in your digestive tract, which can lead to abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss and malnutrition. The studies also were able to show effects of other plastic-associated chemicals on the composition of human breast milk, which puts infant health at risk. |
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| Inflammatory markers of the liver: found in 6 studies | These studies found that plastics could cause liver disease and increase the risk for diabetes. One particularly interesting study even found high levels of plastic-related chemical levels in patients with toxicant-associated steatohepatitis (TASH). TASH is a liver disease that is induced by external toxins. This indicates plastic may harm our liver in a similar way to how you find liver damage in alcoholics. |
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| Liver disease: found in 25 studies | While the previous category included generic results on high inflammatory markers, there were more studies specifically analyzing the influence of the chemicals in plastic and liver disease. The studies showed that plastic could cause liver diseases like hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and liver cancer. |
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| Microbiome measures related to digestive system, excluding liver: found in 3 studies | These studies found that chemicals found in plastic could change the gut microbiome structure, especially for fetuses with exposure through the mother. The microbiome is the plethora of microorganisms in your gut that are involved in your digestion. This could have many adverse health effects related to digestion that need to be studied further. It could for example limit the microbiome's ability to protect the body against external diseases. |
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| Other digestive diseases: found in 28 studies | Many other studies did not fit the official health grouping used by the authors of the report. That does not make them a bit less interesting or less concerning though. The 28 studies under this grouping found plastic-related chemicals impacting oral health (e.g. periodontal disease, which causes teeth to fall out), gastrointestinal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease (a disease of the small intestine that prevent nutrient intake). |
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| Other measures related to digestive system: found in 9 Studies | These studies included all other peculiarities found in the digestive system and potential impacts that are not directly related to gut diseases. Findings included an impact for mothers on the ability to produce milk or red blood cell disorder. Several studies analyzed the Yusho outbreak 1968, a mass food poisoning with PCBs in Japan, where more than 500 people dies and thousands suffered health effects. These included dermal and ocular lesions, and a lowered immune response. Other symptoms included fatigue, headache, cough, and unusual skin sores. Additionally, in children, there were reports of poor cognitive development that can still be found today, generations later. |
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| Other measures related to liver: found in 95 studies | Because the liver is the body's filter for toxins, chemical concentrations in the liver can be measured to find correlations with many adverse health effects. The studies under this grouping were able to find multiple plastic-associated chemicals in patients livers and relate them to a multitude of health effects. Many studies found abnormalities in the liver function, but did not go as far as testing for liver diseases as the above category. Others found a relationship between the substances in the liver and endocrine system (hormone abnormalities), immune system and blood chemistry, the cardiovascular system, the reproductive system, the respiratory system, and the renal system (urine). As a bottom line, we found these studies especially concerning, because of the sheer number of studies finding chemicals in human livers |
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Ear / Hearing Disorders
Believe it or not, there is some evidence that the chemicals in plastics can even be associated with diseases of your ear or the mastoid. The mastoid is a small bone structure behind your ear that is responsible for protecting the ear and regulating air pressure in it. The researchers of the plastic health map found 21 studies analyzing this relationship.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Ear or mastoid disorders: Found in 18 studies | In this relatively new field of study, researchers investigated the levels of chemicals found in plastic in adult and infant blood. In some cases, these levels could be correlated with neurologically caused hearing loss and ear infections. |
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| Other measures related to ear or mastoid process: found in 3 studies | There are a few studies indicating a that PCB can damage brain development and cause related hearing problems. It is also possible that PCBs interact with other toxic neurotoxins like mercury. |
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Endocrine (Hormonal), Nutritional, or Metabolic Abnornmalities
If you read our blog, you may have read before that some of the chemicals in plastic are classified as "endocrine disruptors". What that means is that the chemicals influence hormone production of the body. The most researched heath category of how plastic-related chemicals could poison our body focuses on this endocrine, metabolic, and nutritional system. You can think of these three systems as the body's factory. The endocrine system controls hormone production and release. The nutritional system and metabolic systems turn nutrients in food into energy and distribute it in the body. An astonishing 1205 studies were conducted in this category.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Adrenal system: found in 41 studies | 41 studies analyzed the chemicals' impact on the body's adrenal system. The results showed both over and underproduction of hormones through exposure. Especially alarming is prenatal (before birth) exposure, which could lead to developmental issues during child development. The influence on the hormone balance of newborns could lead to severe developmental issues like infertility, underdeveloped sexual organs, or delayed/early puberty. |
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| Cell function: found in 7 studies | These studies found a correlation between plastic-associated chemicals and the development and repair of body cells. This could range from causing diabetes to damaging bone cells and leading to osteoporosis - a bone disease that weakens the bone structure. |
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| Genetic effects: found in 4 studies | The studies found correlations between exposure to plastic chemicals and gene defects that could be leading to infertility, metabolic disorders like diabetes, and arthritis. |
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| Glucose homeastasis defects: found in 288 sudies | There is overwhelming evidence that the chemicals in plastic are related to deficiencies of the body to process and regulate glucose (glucose homeostasis). Glucose is the main blood sugar and it is essential for regularing the body's energy levels, brain function, and ensuring the proper functioning of multiple bodily processes. While the most researched condition related to glucose deficiencies is diabetes, it can cause multiple conditions like high blood pressure, heart attacks, liver diseases, or pancreatic diseases. |
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| Reproductive (Gonadal) issues: found in 277 studies | The studies related to reproductive issues were able to link plastic-related chemicals to a whole series of conditions. Plastic exposure could lead to delayed or early puberty, male and female infertility, and imbalanced testosterone and estrogen levels. Overall, there is a very worrying link between plastic exposure and the regular sexual-reproductive function of the body. |
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| Growth rate: found in 91 studies | We don't know about you, but whenever children are affected, we are especially careful. The studies analyzed by the plastic health map found many links between plastic-associated chemicals and abnormal infant growth. This link was mainly expressed through low birth weight or height and evident in multiple studies. |
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| Metabolic disorders: found in 200 studies | The chemicals in plastic may be blocking the body's ability to process insulin and other substances essential for a healthy metabolism. Among the studies analyzing metabolic disorders, some found that serum lipids (blood fat and cholesterol levels) correlate to exposure to PCB and other chemicals. This increases risk for cardiovascular disease and other adverse health effects. Other studies specifically suggest a link between chemical exposure and diabetes. |
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| Overweight and obesity: found in 295 studies | As crazy as it sounds, there is overwhelming evidence about the link between exposure to chemicals in plastic and obesity/ overweight. Researchers found that some of the plastic-associated chemicals are obsenogenic, which means they are contributing to a bodily environment that promotes gaining weight. The mechanichms how these chemicals cause obesity include disrupting hormones that are responsible for metabolism, increasing the growth of fat cells, and altering the gut microbiome composition. |
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| Parathyroid function (Calcium levels): Found in 2 studies | While this relationship needs to be studied further, endocrine disuptors may be influencing the calcium concentration in the human body. Hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels) can lead to muscle cramps, numbness, fatigue, skin problems, dental problems, psychological symptoms, and sometimes even death. Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels) can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, constipation, kidney stones, and confusion. |
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| Pituitary gland ("Master Gland"): found in 42 studies | The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain. It is also called master gland, because it controls the function of many other hormone glands. The analyzed studies in the plastic health map found links between plastic exposure and impacted master gland function, which can be the cause of a multitude of problems around hormonal imbalances and disruptions in the regulation of other glands. This can have effects on all issues discussed above, from growth, developmental issues, reproduction, metabolism, to neuological issues and others. |
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| Puberty: found in 79 studies | Several studies have found associations between maternal or childhood exposure to phthalates, bisphenols, and other plastic-related chemicals, and disruptions in reproductive hormone levels like testosterone and estrogen. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to early puberty, late puberty, and other abnormalities. Exposure can happen through diet, personal care products or the environment. |
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| Thyroid: found in 318 studies | The thyroid gland is a hormone producing gland located in the neck. While not a specific health effect, plastic exposure can cause abnormal thyroid function. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating many bodily processes, including child growth and development, body temperature, metabolism, and blood pressure. Consequetly, abnormal thyroid levels can lead to many different severe health effects. |
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| Other effects on hormones, nutrition, and metabolism: Found in 29 studies | Other effects studied also relate to the influence of plastic-related chemicals on hormone production. These include things like iron deficieny or Vitamin D levels. Again, health impacts are manifold. |
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Genitals, Urinary System, and Sexual Dysfunction
the genitourinary system is the part of the body that includes the reproductive organs (genital) and the urinary system. It's responsible for making and getting rid of waste, as well as reproduction. 483 studies analyzed the impacts of plastic-related chemicals on the genitourinary system.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Breast development: found 4 studies | 4 studies analyzed the effects of chemicals in plastic on breast development. While not all 4 studies found correlations between the chemicals and medical conditions, one particular study found evidence that BEHP (part of the phthalate family) could lead to enlarged breasts of boys during puberty. |
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| Male genitals and urinary system: found in 179 studies | 179 studies analyzed correlations between chemical exposure and adverse effects on the male gentials, reproduction, and urinary system. Many studies found a link between chemical exposure and impacted sperm movement, quality, and DNA damage. In other words, there is strong evidence that plastic exposure can lead to male infertility. Other worrying results include increased risk of cancer (e.g. testicular), prostate enlargement, and changes in the chemical composition of urine (which can indicate various medical conditions). |
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| Female genitals and urinary system: found in 164 studies | Just as many studies analyze the impact of plastic-related chemicals on female fertility. The research found that plastic exposure can decrease the number of ovarian follicles, increase oxidative stress and apoptosis in ovarian cells, and impact egg quality and embryo development. Plastic exposure may even lead to stillbirth and cause cancer. Further, there seems to be a link between exposure to PCB and the risk for endometriosis and ovacian cysts. Overall, pregnant women and women who want to conceive should avoid these chemicals. |
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| Impact on IVF outcomes: found in 50 studies | While a very specific research area, the plastic health map also included studies analyzing the impact of plastic-associated chemicals on the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF). IVF is a technique, where egg and sperm are combined in a laboratory outside of the body to increase chances of pregnancy. The analyzed studies found that for both men and women, the exposure to plastic-related chemicals can negatively influence the chances of a successful IVF treatment. Findings suggest that couples that try to conceive with IVF should avoid exposure to these chemicals. |
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| Other impacts on urinary system: found in 107 studies | 43 studies analyzed broader impacts on the urinary system. The researchers found that plastic-related chemicals can impact kidney function, lead to chronic kidney disease, increased uric acid levels (causing pain and other symptoms), and irreversible kidney damage. |
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| Sexual dysfunction: found in 7 studies | Due to their hormone disrupting properties, chemicals in plastic can be linked to sexual dysfunction in both men and women. Disruption in testosterone balance can lead to erectile disfunction and women could have a decreased interest in sexual activity, potentially due to supressed estrogen production. |
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Immune system
The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, organs, and substances, that help the body fight infections and diseases. A properly functioning immune system is crucial for maintaining health and fighting off infections. 186 Studies analyzed the impacts of plastic on the immune system.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
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Allergy and hypersensitivity: found in 56 studies |
Exposure to chemicals like PCBs, phthalates, and PFASs has been linked to various immunologic and allergic health impacts. These include asthma, allergic rhinitis (similar to hay fever), atopic dermatitis (itchy, dry skin and eczema), and altered immune responses in children. Specific studies have shown associations between these chemicals and increased immune response and respiratory infections. Prenatal exposure to some chemicals has been linked to higher risks of allergies and respiratory issues in children. Overall, environmental pollutants play a role in exacerbating allergic and immunologic conditions in exposed populations. |
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| Inflammation, oxidative stress, and risk of infection: found in 58 studies |
The studies examined the health impacts of exposure to chemicals contained in plastic. Exposure to these chemicals was associated with immunological abnormalities, reduced neonatal development, altered cytokine levels (increased inflammation), and increased incidence of respiratory infections in children. All of this is excacerbated by a potentially impacted immune system. Additionally, prenatal exposure to these pollutants correlated with altered immune responses in infants and increased risk of infectious diseases. Overall, environmental pollutants appear to have detrimental effects on immune function and respiratory health. |
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| Cell function and genetic measures related to immune system: found in 7 studies | These studies explore the impacts of cell function and genetic health. The studies suggest the link between plastic-associated chemicals and various health risks like non-Hodgkin lymphoma risk (cancer in the lymph system), altered immune response in asthmatic children. cellular aging, or liver disease. In summary, the endocrine disrupting capabilities of these chemicals can damage cell function and alter gene development. |
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| Other effects related to immune system disorders: found in 76 studies | These studies highlight health effects that were not directly linked to one of the other categories. This can include respiratory involvement, immunological effects, altered lymphocyte function (T-cells and B-cells that are part of the body's immune system), dermatological findings, and impacts on thyroid hormones. Some studies link PCB exposure to adverse outcomes like leukemia, lymph cancer, and increased mortality. Others examine the effects on infants, including changes in immune biomarkers and thyroid function. Overall, these findings emphasize the wide-ranging health consequences of plastic exposure, from immune system disruptions to potential long-term diseases like cancer and metabolic disorders. |
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| Vaccine response: found in 27 studies | The studies looked at how exposure to certain chemicals found in plastic affect the body's ability to respond to vaccines and fight off infections. They found that kids and teens exposed to these chemicals tend to have weaker responses to vaccinations, which means the vaccines might not work as well for them. In combination with the previously mentioned effects on the immune system, this suggests that being exposed to these chemicals could make it more difficult for the body to stay healthy and protected against illnesses. |
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Infectious or Parasitic Diseases
Four studies analyzed the link between exposure to chemicals in plastic and the body's response to infections and parasites.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
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Infectious or parasitic diseases: found in 4 studies |
Four studies in this relatively new area of research found initial evidence on the correlation between plastic-related chemicals and infectious or even parasitic diseases. While interestingly, increased levels of chemicals in participants' blood correlated negatively with parasites, they found increased risk for infetious diseases. One study from 2021 found that exposure to PFAS can increase the risk of COVID infection. This could be partially explained by the weakened immune system that we mentioned above. |
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Mental, Behavioural, and Neurodevelopmental Effects
While most of the previously discussed impacts of plastic exposure were related to physical health effects, the is significant research available that focuses on the effects on the mind. The authors grouped findings of 391 studies into four categories:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders: These encompass ADHD, ASD, intellectual/cognitive disorders, learning disorders, motor development disorders, and speech/language disorders. These conditions primarily affect neurodevelopmental processes and may involve challenges in learning, behavior, and motor skills.
- Mental/behavioral disorders: this group contains conditions, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. These conditions primarily affect mood, thinking, and behavior and may involve disruptions in emotional regulation and social functioning.
- Neurocognitive Disorders: This category would cover neurocognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, which involve cognitive decline and impairments in memory, thinking, language, and judgment due to underlying brain conditions.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Mental/ behavioural: found in 137 studies |
Some findings suggest links between exposure to plastic-related chemicals and increased risk of mental and behavioural development issues. The chemicals can irreversibly change the brain structure of children. Researched observed reduced masculine play in boys, memory impairments, lower executive functioning, and behavioral problems. Additionally, the impacts can go as far as adulthood with associations of chemicals exposure with depression and cardiovascular issues in both children and adults. In mothers, researchers found links to postpartum depression. |
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| Neurocognitive: found in 25 studies | Chemicals exposure showed neurobehavioral and cognitive effects, affecting personality, cognitive function, and memory. Exposure revealed impairments in memory, learning, attention, and fine motor performance among older adults and workers, with associations to Dementia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's diseases. Overall, the findings underscore the detrimental effects of plastic-related chemicals on cognitive function and neurological health, particularly among older adults and those with occupational exposure. |
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Neurodevelopmental disorders: found in 323 studies |
The studies provide overwhelming evidence that plastic exposure can lead to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes, especially in children. Studies revealed cognitive impairment, growth deficits, delayed motor development, and behavioral abnormalities like ADHD and ADS following exposure to plastic-related chemicals during pregnancy. Additionally, postnatal exposure through breast milk or environmental sources was linked to further developmental delays. Effects persisted into school age, affecting IQ, attention, and executive functioning. Notably, chemicals exposure was associated with alterations in neurological function, including deficits in response inhibition, auditory processing, and visual recognition memory, highlighting the pervasive impact of these environmental contaminants on childhood neurodevelopment. |
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Muscoskeletal or Connective Tissue
48 studies analyzed the impact of pastic-related chemicals on bones, muscular tissue and other connective tissue. The researchers found concerning evidence that chemical exposure can have long-term effects on bone structure and muscular development that can span across all age groups.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Arthropathies: found in 9 studies | Chemical exposure was linked to hyperuricemia and consequentially gout (a form of arthritis) in adults. Serum concentrations of PCBs showed positive associations with self-reported arthritis, particularly rheumatoid type, which is an autoimmune form of arthritis. PFOA was associated with thyroid disease, while PFAS were linked to osteoarthritis. Additionally, urinary levels of phenols, parabens, and phthalate metabolites showed associations with osteoarthritis and other medical disorders in adults. |
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| Low bone mass: found in 27 studies | The studies analyzed the impact of plastic-related chemicals on bone health. Exposure showed mixed effects on bone mineral density (BMD) in middle-aged and elderly individuals. Chemical exposure was linked to reduced BMD or osteoporosis risk in different populations, including women, elderly individuals. These findings suggest a potential negative impact of these contaminants on bone health |
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| Other effects on musculoskeletal or connective tissue: found in 15 studies | The referenced studies explore the impact of chemicals on neurological health, muscle oxidative capacity (the mucles ability to use oxygen), and other health parameters. Chemical exposure was related to reduced skeletal muscle oxidative capacity, changes in BMD and bone metabolism (the ability of bones to grow and repair). Prenatal exposure to some chemicals may decrease skeletal muscle mass in children. BPA exposure in postmenopausal women was linked to osteoporosis and Phthalate exposure was associated with reduced handgrip strength in the elderly and muscle loss in adults. |
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Nervous System
Diseases of the nervous system encompass a range of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. These include neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, cerebrovascular diseases (affecting the blood vessels in the brain) such as stroke, movement disorders like ALS, and developmental issues. 68 studies analyzed the impact of plastic-related chemiclas on the nervous system.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Cell Function and Brain Development: found in 6 studies | These studies looked at how exposure to different chemicals in our environment can affect brain development and function. They found that exposure during pregnancy and at work can change levels of important brain chemicals in babies and adults. Some of these chemicals might even contribute to depression. They also found that exposure to certain chemicals while pregnant might affect how a baby's brain develops. Overall, these studies show that what we're exposed to in our environment can have a big impact on our brain health. |
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| Cerebrovascular Disease (Affecting Blood Vessels in the Brain): found in 14 studies | As we already mentioned above, plastic-related chemicals can affect the blood flow in your body. Consequently, these impacted blood vessels can also be linked to brain conditions like stroke. Higher levels of these chemicals in the blood or urine were linked to a greater likelihood of experiencing stroke or developing cardiovascular diseases over the lifetime. |
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| Movement disorders: found in 10 studies | Several studies investigated the health impact of plastic-associated chemicals on neurological conditions related to movement. One study found PCBs in the caudate nucleus (a brain area) of Parkinson's disease patients. Another linked chemicals in the substantia nigra to Parkinson's. Both brain regions are important for motor function of the body. Inuit children exposed to PCBs, showed neuromotor deficits. Both prenatal and postnatal exposure can cause parkinsons and affect motor and cognitive skills. |
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| Neurodegeneration: found in 11 studies | Some studies show the impact of plastic on dementia and general cognitive function in older individuals. Additionally, the toxins in plastic can be associated with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a fatal motor neuron disease that is characterized by progressive degeneration of nerve cells. Plastic-related toxins could even be linked to Alzheimers Disease in some patients. |
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| Other health impacts on the nervous system: found in 32 studies | Studies have linked PCB exposure to neuropsychiatric effects and neurological symptoms. Blood PCB concentrations correlate with symptom severity in chronic patients, while prenatal exposure affects neurodevelopment in children, altering brain structure and function. Genetic responses and dopamine system involvement are also noted, alongside reduced dopamine in women with exposure at work. Exposure also associates with depressive symptoms and ADHD-related behaviors. |
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Pregnancy & Perinatal Period
The effects of plastic-related chemicals on pregnancy, child birth and the perinatal period are well researched. "Perinatal" refers to the period immediately before and after birth, typically covering the last few weeks of pregnancy and the first few days or weeks after birth. It encompasses the time during which a baby is born and the mother's body undergoes physiological changes related to childbirth and postpartum recovery. 573 studies are included in this category.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Abortive outcome of pregnancy: found in 41 studies | The studies found that exposure to plastic-associated chemicals leads to an increased risk of miscarriage and other pregnancy loss. One study even found that women with the highest exposure to a specific phthalate had a 60% higher chance to lose a pregnancy prior to 20 weeks. Another study found that women that were exposed to these chemicals during pregnancy faced an 80% higher risk of spontaneous abortion. |
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| Fetal death/ Birth Defects: found in 13 studies | Findings suggest that maternal exposure to these pollutants correlates with adverse outcomes such as low birth weight, premature birth, menstrual abnormalities, reduced neonatal physiological development, and altered developmental milestones in infants. These included premature delivery, term low birth weight, and stillbirth. |
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| Genetic/ epigenetic measures: found in 15 studies | These studies explore how exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy can affect the way genes are turned on and off in babies. They found that these substances may change the chemical tags on DNA, which can influence how genes work. This could lead to problems like low birth weight or affect how babies grow. Some of these effects seem to be different for boys and girls. |
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| Gestation / Fetal Growth: found in 281 studies | The research shows concerning evidence how pollution affects babies when they're still in the womb. They found that when mothers are exposed to certain pollutants like PCBs and phthalates during pregnancy, it can lead to problems like low birth weight and premature birth. Some chemicals were even linked to babies being smaller than they should be. The study highlights how important it is for pregnant women to avoid exposure to these pollutants to give their babies the best chance of being healthy when they're born. |
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| Disturbed Metabolism during Pregnancy: found in 22 studies | 22 studies found that exposure to platic-related chemicals can lead to outcomes such as altered placental enzyme activity, and disrupted calcium transfer. Additionally, researchers investigated the effects of exposure to PFASs on maternal health, including changes in adipokine levels and metabolic perturbations. In other words, these findings indicate that plastic exposure can disrupt metabolic processes during pregnancy, including those related to energy production, nutrient metabolism, and hormone regulation. This can contribute to conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease for the baby. |
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| Oedema, hypertension, proteinuria: found in 38 studies | Findings revealed associations of exposure to plastic chemicals with pregnancy complications such as oedema (fluid build-up and pressure in the body), preeclampsia (a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems) and gestational hypertension (high blood pressure during pregnancy). Furthermore, they found increased protein in mothers' urine (proteinuria) for mothers exposed to these chemicals. This could indicate kidney problems. All of these conditions present a significant risk for both mother and child. |
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| Other perinatal impacts: found in 12 studies | Other studies found indicators for potentially adverse health effects that need to be studied further. This includes increased lipid levels (fats) levels in cord blood, which could increase the risk for hearth attacks and strokes for mother and child. |
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| Placenta function: found in 65 studies | The placenta is a vital organ that acts like a bdidge between mother and baby during pregnancy. It supports fetal development by facilitating nutrient/waste exchange, hormone production, immune regulation, and growth factor signaling between the mother and fetus. Studies found altered placental enzyme activity, disruptions in placental gene expression, inflammation, oxidative stress, DNA methylation, miRNA expression, and altered levels of various biomarkers caused by chemicals exposure. In other words, the exposure to these plastic-related chemicals could damage the bridge between mother and fetus, which can lead to low borth weight, inflammation, and other issues. |
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Respiratory system
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Asthma: found in 99 studies | These studies investigated health impacts of environmental chemical exposure in relation to different forms of asthma. They cover exposure at work or elsewhere. Chemical-induced asthma, childhood asthma, and overall childhood allergies correlate with the exposure to plastic-related chemicals. There is even a special form of asthma known as tetrachlorophthalic anhydride(TCPA) asthma, which is induced by TCPA, a chemical broadly used in the plastic industry. |
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| Nose and upper respiratory system: found in 34 studies | Exposure to plastic-associated chemicals can lead to allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and other allergic eye and nose issues. One study in this group was particularly concerning, where a patient swallowed a homeopathic pill and had a serious anaphylactic shock. Later tests revealed that this was likely induced by special phthalates used in the plastic packaging. |
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| Other respiratory issues: found in 42 studies | Futher studies analyzed the impact of plastic-related chemicals on the respiratory system outside of allergies and asthma. They found evidence that exposure to these chemicals can lead to decreased lung function, inflammation, infections like pneumonia, and obstructive pulmonary disease (e.g. bronchitis). Especially risky is an increased level of microplastics in the air that can cause many respiratory issues due to inhalation. |
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Skin
430 studies analyzed the impact that plastic and plastic-related chemicals can have on the skin. These impacts could be caused by ingestion, or skin contact.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Allergic dermatitis: found in 350 studies | Studies found allergic contact dermatitis caused by various chemical exposures. They explore reactions to substances like phthalates, flame retardants, and epoxy resins commonly found in plastics, adhesives, and coatings. Occupational settings such as computer mouse manufacturing and sewage treatment also contribute to health impacts. These studies highlight the need for preventive measures and product safety regulations in the plastic industry. |
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| Eczema: Found in 55 studies | Besides strong allergic skin reactions, plastic exposure can also cause eczema. These studies explore prenatal and childhood exposure to plastic-related chemicals through various pathways, including dust, urine, and maternal levels, linking them to immune reponses, allergic reactions, and eczema on the skin. |
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Sleep disruption
6 studies found impacts on the sleep-wake system. In other words, plastic-related chemicals can affect sleep behaviour in both adults and children.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Sleep disruption: found in 6 studies | Plastic contains hormone discupting chemicals, which have effects on normal functioning of the body and brain. Exposure to plastic can lead to trouble falling asleep, sleep disruption, and sleep apnea. |
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Visual system
27 studies found impacts on the visual system. This includes the eyes and the brain components that are necessary to process the visual information presented to the eyes.
| Condition | Description | Chemicals |
| Visual System Discorders and other measures: found in 27 studies | While more research is needed, plastic exposure could lead to visual impairment. If the chemicals reach the eye or the brain, they can cause oxidative stress, allergic reactions, and interrupt the nerves related to the visual system. One study for example found a correlation between the levels of plastic-related chemicals in breast milk and impaired visual function of infants. |
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When it comes to plastic exposure, less is always more!
The massive database created by the Minderoo foundation shows the extent to which plastic really poisons our bodies and nature.
While many of the health implcations need to be studied further, we can definitely draw a conclusion from the reseach.
When it comes to exposing ouselves to plastic in our daily lives, less is always more.
Wherever possible, we should replace plastic with alternative materials like paper, aluminum, or glass.
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What are your thoughts about the chemicals in plastic and their health impacts? Leave a comment below and engage in the discussion!
