Scientists at the University of New Mexico have found that 74% of the plastic accumulating in human brains is polyethylene, which is used to make packaging, bags, bottles, toys and other household items.

After examining human tissue samples from over 50 individuals, they discovered up to thirty times more plastic present in the brain than in the kidneys and the liver. Since 25-30% of the blood flow and 75% of the water we consume goes to the brain it is clear most of these pollutants have derived from what we are drinking and eating.

Most samples consisted of 200NM shards of polyethylene which have increased exponentially in the last eight years. This material has a slow degradation rate and therefore persists in our environment, food and water sources.

Previous studies have revealed micro (nano) plastic particles can cause metabolic alterations and protein aggregation in the human body. Protein aggregation is an abnormal accumulation of proteins which is the primary cause of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Dementia.

Mathew Campen and his colleagues, who conducted the study, urge for more research in understanding the affects of micro and nano-plastics on human health.