Seven types of microplastics found in the human penises, raises questions about sexual function

Posted on by Robin Edgar
The proliferation of microplastics (MPs) represents a burgeoning environmental and health crisis. Measuring less than 5 mm in
diameter, MPs have infiltrated atmospheric, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems, penetrating commonplace consumables like
seafood, sea salt, and bottled beverages. Their size and surface area render them susceptible to chemical interactions with
physiological fluids and tissues, raising bioaccumulation and toxicity concerns. Human exposure to MPs occurs through ingestion,
inhalation, and dermal contact. To date, there is no direct evidence identifying MPs in penile tissue. The objective of this study was
to assess for potential aggregation of MPs in penile tissue. Tissue samples were extracted from six individuals who underwent
surgery for a multi-component inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP).
[…]
Seven
types of MPs were found in the penile tissue, with polyethylene terephthalate (47.8%) and polypropylene (34.7%) being the most
prevalent. The detection of MPs in penile tissue raises inquiries on the ramifications of environmental pollutants on sexual health.
Our research adds a key dimension to the discussion on man-made pollutants, focusing on MPs in the male reproductive system.
IJIR: Your Sexual Medicine Journal; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-024-00930-6

Source: Detection of microplastics in the human penis | International Journal of Impotence Research

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Robin Edgar

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