Microplastics - tiny plastic particles less than 5mm long - were first identified in the ocean but are now known to be ubiquitous throughout the environment, within soil, air food and water. Recently, microplastics have been detected in human blood, placenta, and other tissues (liver, lung, colon) raising concerns about potential adverse health effects.

This lecture reviews the science on microplastics and whether we should be concerned about them, compared with other known environmental hazards.

A lecture by Dr Ian Mudway recorded on 25 September 2023 at Barnard's Inn Hall, London

The transcript and downloadable versions of the lecture are available from the Gresham College website: https://www.gresham.ac.uk/watch-now/microplastics-health

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Microplastics, Public Health Myth or Menace

Gresham College Lectures

Microplastics, Public Health Myth or Menace