The Journal of Practical Medicine ›› 2024, Vol. 40 ›› Issue (14): 1908-1915.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-5725.2024.14.002

• Clinical Advances • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Research progress of microplastics in the field of obesity

Shulei ZHANG1,Ruiji CUI1,2,Lingjun YAN3,Wei SUN3,4,Yinglong. BAI1()   

  1. *.Department of Child and Adolescent Health,School of Public Health,China Medical University,Shenyang 110122,China
  • Received:2023-11-17 Online:2024-07-25 Published:2024-07-15
  • Contact: Yinglong. BAI E-mail:ylbai@cmu.edu.cn

Abstract:

Overweight and obesity have emerged as a significant public health concern globally. While factors such as genetics, diet, and physical activity are insufficient to fully account for the rise in overweight and obesity, recent studies have indicated a link between environmental pollutants and the development of obesity. Microplastics, a novel type of environmental pollutant, are pervasive in various environmental media and daily life, entering organisms through multiple pathways including the digestive tract, respiratory tract, skin, among others. Evidence from studies has revealed the presence of microplastics in human tissues, organs, and biological samples, suggesting potential health risks to humans. This review outlines the pathways and distribution of microplastics within the human body while summarizing current research progress in relation to obesity. This article aims to raise awareness within society regarding the detrimental effects of microplastics and provide a theoretical foundation for medical professionals addressing public health issues.

Key words: microplastics, obesity, public health

CLC Number: