Microplastics and Endocrine Disruption: Impacts on Human Health
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21326304Keywords:
Microplastics, Endocrine Disruption, Human Health, Endocrine Disruptors, Metabolism, ObesityAbstract
Introduction: Microplastics are emerging environmental contaminants widely distributed throughout the environment and have raised growing concern due to their potential to act as endocrine disruptors. Human exposure occurs mainly through ingestion, inhalation, and, to a lesser extent, dermal contact, potentially leading to metabolic, reproductive, and hormonal alterations. Objective: To analyze the scientific evidence regarding the impacts of microplastics on the human endocrine system. Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Virtual Health Library databases, including studies published between 2020 and 2026 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Studies addressing the effects of microplastics on the endocrine system, metabolism, and reproductive health were included. Results: The analyzed studies demonstrated that microplastics may induce oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and epigenetic alterations, interfering with hormonal signaling. The main reported outcomes included insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, thyroid dysfunction, impaired male and female fertility, and potential adverse effects during pregnancy. However, most available evidence derives from experimental studies, highlighting the need for long-term clinical investigations. Conclusion: Current evidence suggests that microplastics represent a potential risk factor for endocrine and metabolic disorders. Despite recent scientific advances, important knowledge gaps remain regarding the chronic effects of human exposure, emphasizing the need for prospective studies to support preventive strategies and environmental public health policies.
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