Worker studies suggest unique liver carcinogenicity potential of polyvinyl chloride microplastics.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Plastic debris pervades our environment. Some breaks down into microplastics (MPs) that can enter and distribute in living organisms causing effects in multiple target organs. MPs have been demonstrated to harm animals through environmental exposure. Laboratory animal studies are still insufficient to evaluate human impact. And while MPs have been found in human tissues, the health effects at environmental exposure levels are unclear.

Aim

We reviewed and summarized existing evidence on health effects from occupational exposure to MPs. Additionally, the diverse effects documented for workers were organized by MP type and associated co-contaminants. Evidence of the unique effects of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) on liver was then highlighted.

Methods

We conducted

SUBMITTER: Zarus GM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10841875 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature