What are microplastics doing to human health? Scientists work to connect the dots [Video]

Thousands of delegates are in Ottawa trying to hammer out an historic treaty to end plastic pollution, but the road to get there is littered with hurdles. CBC’s Susan Ormiston examines why it’s so hard to curb the problem and what it will take for the world to agree on a plan.

Plastic serves as a building block for our food packaging, water pipes, rubber tires and synthetic fabrics. But plastic also litters waterways, soil and air so humans and other animals wind up taking in tiny versions with unknown consequences.

People unknowingly ingest microplastics from what we eat, drink and breathe. Some scientists fear exposure to microplastics could increase vulnerability to heart disease, cancer and other illnesses. They’re working to connect the dots between microplastics and any health hazards.

At this week’s United Nations’ global summit on plastic pollution in Ottawa, delegates are working toward a treaty to address plastics from production to use and disposal.

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Tags Health Promotion, Health Research, Health Workers, Vaccination Programs