Microplastics found in penises raise alarming concerns for men's health
Microplastics have been discovered in penises for the first time, raising concerns about their potential role in erectile dysfunction. Is it possible to prevent these particles from entering our bodies?
Microplastics and nanoplastics are formed through the gradual degradation of plastics. These particles are released from plastic bottles, packaging, foil, and polyester clothing. They are small enough to penetrate the bodies of all living organisms, including humans. On 19 June, researchers at the University of Miami published data on the discovery of plastic particles in human penises.
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Scientists have discovered microplastics in penis tissue
The study evaluated tissue samples from five men who had undergone surgery for erectile dysfunction. Microplastics were found in four of the cases. The most common types detected were PET (used to make plastic bottles) and polypropylene, both of which are commonly found in food packaging and other everyday items.
Dr Ranjith Ramasamy, who led the study at the University of Miami, said: "The penis is a vascular, spongy organ, so it is definitely vulnerable. During an erection, a fifth of the blood volume in the whole body gets pumped to the penis." The organ can, therefore, accumulate particles that float in the blood.
Does microplastic cause erectile dysfunction?
The scientist added: "We know erectile dysfunction is multifactorial. You need good hormones, nerves, blood supply, and good smooth muscle tissue for an erection to happen. We found that microplastics were present in the smooth muscle of the penis. All we know is that they are not supposed to be there, and we suspect that it could lead to smooth muscle dysfunction."
Dr Ramasamy emphasised that further research is urgently needed to clarify the potential role of microplastics in erectile dysfunction and male infertility. Sperm counts in men have been declining for decades, and 40% of cases of low sperm counts remain unexplained, although many studies suggest chemical pollution as a factor. Recent studies in mice have shown that microplastics reduce sperm counts and cause hormone disruption, as reported by The Guardian.
We recently discussed ways to minimise our exposure to microplastics. Our food and drink choices partly determine how much microplastics and nanoplastics we consume. However, we cannot completely avoid these particles, as they are already present in the air we breathe, in all bodies of water, and in the soil where our food and the animals we eat grow. The only way to get this situation under control is through top-down restrictions on the amount of plastic produced.
Source: theguardian.com
