Plastic Pollution: A Growing Threat to Human Health

New Delhi, June 2025.

The theme of World Environment Day 2025 is ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’, urging us to protect our planet and environment. However, plastic has become an integral part of our daily lives; we drink water from plastic bottles and carry vegetables and groceries in polythene bags. These habits pose a serious threat to our health. Let’s explore some dangerous diseases caused by plastic, which have become a serious health concern.

The use of plastic is rapidly increasing the risk of several serious diseases, including asthma and pulmonary cancer. Harmful chemicals in plastic cause respiratory problems, leading to asthma. Furthermore, burning plastic releases toxic gases that enter the body through inhalation, damaging the lungs and increasing the risk of pulmonary cancer. Therefore, distancing ourselves from plastic is crucial for health.

According to the Geneva Environment Network, research shows that microplastics can harm our health and facilitate the entry of pathogens into our bodies, increasing the spread of diseases.

Chemicals released from plastic can gradually damage the functioning of the liver and kidneys, reducing the efficiency of these organs.

Drinking water stored for a long time in plastic bottles can weaken the body’s immunity, increasing the likelihood of frequent illnesses.

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