MİKROPLASTİKLERİN İMMÜN SİSTEM ÜZERİNE ETKİLERİ VE GEBELİK

Microplastics are one of the most common sources of environmental pollution. Microplastics are synthetic particles smaller than 5 mm and can enter the human body through many means, from seafood to water sources and even the air. The effects of microplastics, which enter the body through inhalation, oral ingestion and skin contact, on human health are a growing concern. The accumulation of microplastics in the digestive and respiratory systems can lead to disruptions in the intestinal microbiota, inflammation and weakening of the immune response. The presence of microplastics, especially in critical barriers between the mother and the fetus, such as the placenta and amniotic fluid, draws attention with their negative effects on fetal development and birth outcomes. Studies have shown that babies exposed to microplastics exhibit negative outcomes such as low birth weight, short birth length and low Apgar scores. This study discusses the potential effects of microplastics on human health, their effects on the immune system and their dangers, especially during pregnancy.