PLASTIC USE PRACTICES AND AWARENESS OF POTENTIAL MICROPLASTIC-RELATED RISKS DURING PREGNANCY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL SURVEY IN UZBEKISTAN

Plastic products are widely used in everyday life, including food storage and drinking-water consumption. However, the possible health risks associated with microplastics have raised concerns, particularly during pregnancy. This study aimed to assess plastic-use practices and awareness of potential microplastic-related risks among women of reproductive age in Uzbekistan. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2026 using Google Forms, involving 101 respondents. The questionnaire covered household plastic use, drinking-water containers, food storage, awareness of possible placental transfer, perceived pregnancy-related risks, and willingness to reduce plastic use. The results showed that 55.7% of respondents used plastic bags or containers for food storage, while 45.9% used single-use plastic bottles for drinking water. Regarding the possible transfer of microplastics across the placenta, 49.0% considered it possible, 15.6% believed it could occur with certainty, and 14.6% believed that the placenta provided complete protection. Nearly half of the respondents (48.5%) considered public awareness campaigns insufficient. Furthermore, 58.2% stated that they would stop using plastic containers if scientific evidence demonstrated harmful effects, while 30.6% would reduce their use. In conclusion, the findings highlight the common use of plastic products and the need for improved public awareness of microplastics and reproductive health. However, the survey assessed self-reported practices and perceptions and did not directly measure microplastic exposure or pregnancy outcomes.