Toxicological Effects of Ingested Microplastics on Human Health

Microplastics, ubiquitous in the environment due to their extensive use and persistence, pose emerging concerns for human health. This chapter explores the toxicological effects of ingested microplastics on human health within the specific socio-economic and environmental contexts of Asia and Africa. Emphasizing the unique challenges and vulnerabilities of these regions, this chapter navigates the complex pathways through which microplastics interact with the human body, addressing ingestion routes, including the consumption of seafood and contaminated drinking water, as well as the inhalation of airborne particles. Drawing upon a synthesis of international and region-specific studies, this comprehensive review aims to elucidate the complex dynamics of microplastic-induced toxicity in the Asia and Africa, addressing the urgency of understanding the immediate and long-term health consequences while proposing future research directions and effective mitigation strategies tailored to these regions. Through this contextual review, this chapter seeks to contribute to a holistic understanding of the interaction between microplastics and human physiology, taking into account the diverse characteristics and challenges present in the twenty-first century Asia and Africa.