How Microplastics Slowly Make Their Way Inside Us
Microplastics, tiny plastic pieces less than 5mm, are a growing concern as they are found everywhere, from oceans to human bodies. These plastics, which became widely used after World War II, don't break down easily and can carry harmful chemicals. While research is still ongoing to fully understand their health effects, microplastics have been found in human blood and lungs. There's also concern about chemicals like BPA, commonly found in plastics, which may affect health. Solutions include using biodegradable plastics, better waste management, and consumer awareness, though more research is needed to confirm the long-term health impacts.
Key Vocabulary
To control or strongly influence what happens or what should be done; to determine authoritatively.
Examples:
- The company's strict policy dictates how employees must dress for client meetings.
- Fashion trends often dictate the designs seen on the runway each season.
- The project manager dictates the deadlines for each phase of the development.
Relating to the system in the body that produces and secretes hormones directly into the blood, affecting various bodily functions.
Examples:
- Disruptions to the endocrine system can lead to hormonal imbalances.
- The thyroid gland is a key part of the endocrine system, regulating metabolism.
- Scientists are studying how certain chemicals might interfere with endocrine function.
A continuous, often monotonous, and seemingly endless process or routine; a situation from which it is difficult to escape.
Examples:
- Working long hours with little reward felt like being stuck on a corporate treadmill.
- The constant cycle of studying and exams can feel like a never-ending academic treadmill.
- Many people find themselves on a financial treadmill, struggling to keep up with expenses.
Chemical substances obtained from petroleum and natural gas, used as raw materials in the manufacture of a wide range of products, including plastics, fertilizers, and textiles.
Examples:
- The production of synthetic fabrics relies heavily on petrochemicals.
- New technologies aim to reduce the environmental impact of petrochemicals.
- Many common household items are derived from petrochemicals.
A thin, transparent sheet of regenerated cellulose, used primarily for packaging.
Examples:
- The florist wrapped the bouquet in a sheet of clear cellophane.
- Food items are often sealed in cellophane to maintain freshness.
- She carefully unwrapped the gift, tearing the cellophane packaging.
To secretly enter or become a part of something, often with the intention of gaining information or influence, or to permeate something.
Examples:
- The new marketing strategy successfully infiltrated various online communities.
- Over time, the group's ideas infiltrated mainstream thought.
- Water slowly infiltrated the old building's foundation, causing damage.
To a very great degree; by a large majority; overpoweringly.
Examples:
- The new policy was overwhelmingly supported by the public.
- She felt overwhelmingly grateful for the unexpected help.
- The evidence presented in court was overwhelmingly in favor of the defendant.
To identify or determine the nature or existence of something.
Examples:
- The detective's task was to identify the motive behind the crime.
- Researchers are working to identify new ways to combat the disease.
- It's important to identify potential risks before starting a new venture.
Sites where waste materials are disposed of by burying them under layers of earth.
Examples:
- Many cities are trying to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
- The old electronics ended up in landfills, contributing to environmental pollution.
- Recycling programs help divert materials away from landfills.
To take food, drink, or other substances into the body by swallowing or absorbing it.
Examples:
- The patient was advised not to ingest any food for several hours before the procedure.
- Children sometimes accidentally ingest small objects, which can be dangerous.
- Certain medications are designed to be ingested with water.
To dissolve out or extract (a soluble substance) from another substance, often by the action of a liquid passing through it.
Examples:
- Harmful chemicals can leech from old pipes into drinking water.
- Rainfall can cause nutrients to leech from the soil, affecting plant growth.
- The dye began to leech from the fabric, staining the other clothes in the wash.
A collection of pus in a body cavity, especially in the pleural cavity (the space between the lung and the chest wall).
Examples:
- The patient developed empyema as a complication of pneumonia.
- Surgical intervention was necessary to drain the empyema.
- Symptoms of empyema can include fever, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
An official order or commission to do something; to require or order something to be done.
Examples:
- The new law will mandate stricter safety standards for all construction sites.
- The school board issued a mandate requiring all students to wear uniforms.
- The international treaty mandates cooperation on environmental protection.
To diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength.
Examples:
- Their savings dwindled rapidly after several unexpected expenses.
- The crowd dwindled as the concert drew to a close.
- Over the years, the number of active members in the club has dwindled.
An expression of praise and good wishes for an achievement or happy event.
Examples:
- Congratulations on your promotion!
- She received many congratulations after winning the award.
- Please extend my congratulations to the entire team for their hard work.
The action or practice of using an item again, either for its original purpose or for a different purpose, instead of discarding it.
Examples:
- Many companies are encouraging the reuse of packaging materials to reduce waste.
- Old glass jars can be cleaned and reused for storage or decoration.
- The project focused on finding innovative ways to reuse discarded textiles.
The digestive tract, especially the intestine; often used to refer to one's intuition or deepest feelings.
Examples:
- Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is important for overall well-being.
- He had a gut feeling that something was wrong, even though there was no clear evidence.
- The doctor recommended a diet rich in fiber to support gut health.
The act of breathing in air or other substances into the lungs.
Examples:
- Prolonged inhalation of smoke can damage the respiratory system.
- The mask provides protection against the inhalation of airborne particles.
- Deep inhalation exercises can help improve lung capacity.
Made or caused by human beings rather than occurring naturally.
Examples:
- The canal is a significant manmade waterway that connects two major rivers.
- Synthetic materials are examples of manmade innovations.
- Engineers designed a manmade island to expand the city's coastline.
The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.
Examples:
- Regular exercise contributes significantly to a person's physical wellbeing.
- The company prioritizes the mental wellbeing of its employees through various support programs.
- Access to green spaces is known to improve overall community wellbeing.