Air Pollution Microplastics with the Potential Risk of Lung Disease: A Systematic Review

Lalu Muhammad  Fikri Wardana; . Nurjazuli; Tri  Joko; Muhammad Addin  Rizaldi

doi:10.18502/jehsd.v10i2.19006

Lalu Muhammad Fikri Wardana Master Program in Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Diponegoro University, Prof. Jacub Rais Street, Central Java-50275, Indonesia.
. Nurjazuli Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Diponegoro University, Prof. Jacub Rais Street, Central Java-50275, Indonesia
Tri Joko Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Diponegoro University, Prof. Jacub Rais Street, Central Java-50275, Indonesia
Muhammad Addin Rizaldi Public Health Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jenderal Soedirman University, Prof. Dr. HR Boenyamin Street No.708, Central Java-53122, Indonesia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jehsd.v10i2.19006

Keywords: Microplastics, Particulate Matter, Inhalation Exposure, Air Pollutants, Lung Injury, Toxicity.

Abstract

Introduction: Airborne microplastics (AMPs), due to their small size and widespread dispersal, pose increasing risks to human respiratory health. Detected in both indoor and outdoor environments, AMPs raise concerns over chronic inhalation exposure. Their accumulation in lung tissue may lead to oxidative stress, inflammation, and epithelial barrier dysfunction. This systematic review evaluates the respiratory health effects of AMPs exposure.

Materials and Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, relevant articles were identified through systematic searches in Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Springer Link. A total of 20 studies published between 2019 and 2024 were synthesized.

Results: AMPs originate from degraded plastics and industrial emissions and can reach alveoli when inhaled. They induce inflammatory responses via oxidative stress and activation of pathways such as NF-κB. Chronic exposure is associated with elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial dysfunction, and tissue damage, contributing to conditions like pulmonary fibrosis and COPD. AMPs also impair epithelial barriers by disrupting tight junctions and increasing tissue permeability. In vitro and in vivo studies confirm their cytotoxic and inflammatory effects. However, knowledge gaps remain, particularly regarding chronic low-dose exposure and interactions with other pollutants.

Conclusion: This review highlights the health risks of AMPs and the need for stricter environmental policies and public education. Findings inform future research and support interventions to mitigate AMPs exposure and protect respiratory health.