Microplastics found in higher levels in lung cancer patients

Research presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress 2026 indicates that individuals diagnosed with lung cancer are more likely to have higher concentrations of microplastics in their lungs compared to those without the disease.

The study, conducted at the University Hospital of Larissa in Greece, involved 100 participants. Researchers analyzed lung-wash samples and lung tissue, detecting a total of 232 microplastic particles. Microplastics were found in 66% of cancer patients compared to 46% of the control group. The most common plastics identified were polypropylene and polyethylene, which are widely used in household goods, textiles, and packaging.

Experts note that while the findings align with existing evidence regarding human exposure to environmental microplastics through inhalation, the study does not establish a direct causal link between the particles and cancer. Some researchers have pointed out that further investigation is needed to determine if previous medical procedures might influence particle levels and to confirm the overall quality of the preliminary data.