BPOM warns microplastics may increase stroke risk

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) said global interconnectivity among laboratories and continuous innovation are essential to addressing emerging public health challenges, including the potential impact of microplastics.

BPOM Chairman Taruna Ikrar said on Monday that microplastics and nanoplastics are increasingly affecting both the environment and human health, noting that widespread plastic use and inadequate waste management have raised growing health concerns.

Citing a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, Ikrar said researchers found a possible link between microplastics and atherosclerosis, a condition caused by plaque buildup in the arteries.

“The problem is how microplastics can enter the vascular system. We do not yet fully understand it, but it may be because they are nanoparticles derived from microplastics that can enter the bloodstream and cause damage to the endothelial system,” Ikrar said.

According to him, the findings suggest that microplastics could damage the vascular system and potentially increase the risk of ischemic diseases, including stroke.

He added that BPOM had recently discussed the issue with the House of Representatives, particularly the need to establish internationally recognized safety standards to determine acceptable levels of microplastics or nanoparticles in consumer products.

“There is currently no international standard for microplastics. This is why laboratory capacity is so important,” he said.

Ikrar also said concerns over illegal drugs and medicines further highlight the urgency of high-quality laboratories and global laboratory interconnectivity. Strong laboratories, he said, are needed to test products and ensure compliance with safety, quality, and efficacy standards.

“That is why laboratory testing is very important in regulatory systems, not only in government laboratories but also in universities and industry, which also need high-quality standards,” he added.

He said stronger collaboration among laboratories worldwide would help improve patient safety and protect the public from unsafe products and harmful substances.

To that end, BPOM has partnered with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to improve laboratory quality in Indonesia.

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Translator: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie

Editor: M Razi Rahman

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