First evidence of microplastics found in human placentas

A new study has found microplastics in the placentas of unborn babies for the first time, with scientists concluding that the particles are likely to have been ingested or breathed in by the mothers, EUobserver reported on Wednesday, citing The Guardian.

"Due to the crucial role of [the] placenta in supporting the foetus's development, the presence of potentially harmful plastic particles is a matter of great concern," researchers said.