London, UK, 2025-09-20

In a discovery that has shocked the scientific community, researchers have found that microplastics—tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size—have infiltrated human bones and bone marrow. A new review of 62 scientific articles published in the journal Osteoporosis International highlights the widespread presence of these particles within the human skeletal system and outlines the potential for serious health consequences. This groundbreaking research confirms earlier findings and indicates that the pervasive presence of plastic in the environment is now directly affecting the human body at a cellular level, potentially contributing to a range of bone-related diseases.

The Path of Microplastics into Bone Tissue

Scientists have long known that microplastics are present in the environment, from the deepest oceans to the highest mountains. But this study clarifies that these particles are also finding their way deep inside the human body.

 * Ingestion and Inhalation: The primary routes of exposure are through the air we breathe and the food and water we consume. From there, the smallest particles can enter the bloodstream.

 * Reaching the Bones: Once in the bloodstream, a significant body of research suggests that microplastics can reach deep into bone tissue, including the bone marrow, and disrupt its metabolism. The study found that microplastics have been detected in various bone samples, including the humerus and hip. 

Potential Risks to Bone Health

The research reveals that the presence of microplastics in bone tissue is not just an alarming phenomenon; it poses significant risks to human health.

 * Cellular Damage: The study found that microplastics can impair the function of bone cells, accelerate cell aging, and even promote the formation of osteoclasts, which are cells that break down bone tissue. This process, known as bone resorption, could weaken skeletal structures and contribute to conditions like osteoporosis.

 * Inflammatory Responses: Microplastics have also been shown to induce inflammatory responses, which can compromise overall bone integrity. Researchers warn that this hidden threat could play a role in the alarming global rise of osteoporosis and related fractures.

 * Worsening Bone Diseases: A research team is now starting a project to verify the relationship between microplastic exposure and the worsening of metabolic bone diseases, which could explain the projected increase in the number of bone fractures globally.