A new study has revealed a shocking health risk lurking in hospital IV drips thousands of tiny plastic particles entering patients’ bloodstreams. Published in Environment & Health, the research highlights how IV fluids administered through plastic bags may be unknowingly delivering microplastics into the body.
Scientists found that each IV saline bag contained an estimated 7,500 plastic particles. In a standard IV drip for dehydration, this number could rise to 25,000. During abdominal surgery, where multiple IV bags are used, patients could be exposed to more than 52,000 microplastic particles.
“Microplastics can be ingested, inhaled, or consumed through drinking water, but IV drips provide a direct entry point into the bloodstream,” the study stated.
Researchers analyzed two commonly used brands of IV saline bags, filtering the liquid to capture microplastics. They noted that many IV bottles are made of polypropylene (PP), which may contribute to contamination despite filtration measures.
The study calls for urgent quality control measures in IV production, recommending highly efficient micrometer or submicrometer-level filtration systems to prevent plastic particles from entering patients’ veins. Scientists also urged stricter monitoring across the medical supply chain to meet safety standards.
Microplastics tiny plastic fragments less than five millimeters in size have been found everywhere, from the Mariana Trench to Mount Everest. They have even been detected in human placentas, semen, breast milk, brains, livers, and bone marrow, raising concerns over their impact on health.
Experts warn that microplastic pollution is a growing crisis, with evidence suggesting it poses serious risks to human and environmental health. Scientists are now calling for a global emergency declaration to address this invisible but widespread threat.
