For the first time, microplastics have been detected in the bodies of children in Cyprus. Twenty-nine elementary school children participated in the study conducted by the Cyprus International Institute for Environmental and Public Health at CUT, in collaboration with Italian scientists. Particles were detected in all 29 morning urine samples collected, with polyethylene and polypropylene being the most common types.
“At this stage, we do not know to what extent they are linked to various health, growth, and developmental issues in either children or adults. On the other hand, this is something we must examine closely—both as a society and as the Republic of Cyprus.”
Konstantinos Makris – Professor of Environmental Health, CUT
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READ ALSO: Shocking Research from CUT: Microplastics Detected in Children’s Urine in Cyprus for the First Time
Invisible to the naked eye, these particles may come from various sources.
“They could come from any plastic, whether it’s food packaging or even personal care products. In other words, they could be found in shampoos or conditioners.”
Konstantinos Makris – Professor of Environmental Health, CUT
Exposure to microplastics can be minimized by avoiding the reuse of plastic bottles and the use of plastic containers that have been exposed to heat, as well as by switching to alternative options.
“We can switch to glass, we can switch to ceramics, or to stainless steel.”
Konstantinos Makris – Professor of Environmental Health, CUT
The study’s findings, as the scientists note, are preliminary, and further research is needed to confirm that microplastics are consistently detected in children’s urine, to identify the main routes of exposure, and to investigate potential health effects.
Watch the report by Rafaella Stavrinou:
