Chinese Researchers: "Microplastics Shed from Almost All Types of Masks... Side Effects Uncertain, Wearing Recommended"

All Types of Masks Except N95 Contain More Microplastic Fiber Fragments Than Air Pollutants
"Wearing Them Is Essential as They Offer Much Greater COVID-19 Prevention Effect"

A study conducted in China revealed that microplastic particles can detach from masks during use and be inhaled through breathing. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Nana] The Institute of Hydrobiology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences reported that while wearing masks can cause microplastic particles to shed and be inhaled through breathing, masks should still be worn to prevent COVID-19 infection.

According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on the 3rd, the Institute of Hydrobiology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences published these research findings last month on the 30th in the environmental science journal "Journal of Hazardous Materials."

The Institute conducted a month-long experiment on various types of masks, from N95 masks to fashion masks, and confirmed that microplastic fiber particles shed from almost all types of masks during breathing.

More fiber particles were shed from reusable masks, and masks exposed to alcohol showed the most severe damage.

Additionally, all types of masks except N95 masks produced more microplastic fiber particles than the amount of air pollutants.

Since plastic decomposes slowly, once it enters the lungs, it accumulates. The SCMP reported that if the human immune system attacks these foreign substances (plastic), it can cause chronic inflammation leading to diseases such as cancer.

However, the Chinese researchers emphasized that the exact side effects of these shed fibers are uncertain, and since the preventive effect of wearing masks against COVID-19 is much greater, masks should continue to be worn.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.