The use of plastic is considered hazardous for the environment. Plastic is durable, flexible and can be used for a very long time – while the inexpensive nature of this element makes it a preferred product for use, it also brings with it health hazards. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Meenakshi Jain, Director – Internal Medicine, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, said, “One of the main concerns is the presence of toxic chemicals in plastic, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, which are often used to enhance the flexibility and durability of plastic products. These chemicals can leach into food and beverages, especially when plastic containers are heated or come in contact with acidic or fatty foods.”
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Effects of plastic on health:
“BPA and phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body’s hormonal systems, leading to reproductive health problems, developmental problems in children, and an increased risk of long-term diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer,” said Dr Meenakshi Jain.
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Health hazards on kidneys due to use of plastic:
Dr. Prakash Chandra Shetty Urologist, Dr. LH Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, Mumbai explains the effects of BPA and phthalates on the kidneys – “When ingested, these can disrupt the proper functioning of hormones in the body, leading to various health complications. These chemicals are very dangerous when it comes to the kidneys as they can cause oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to the early stages of kidney injury.”
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Additional complications of existing kidney diseases:
The toxins in plastic can cause additional kidney complications for people suffering from existing kidney diseases. For kidney patients, the constant use of plastic worsens the progression of the disease, complicating its control and treatment.
Low kidney filtration rate:
The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood. However, high levels of BPA can lead to a build-up of toxins within the kidneys, reducing their functionality. This can lead to the appearance of protein in the urine and the development of chronic kidney diseases, underlining the potential impact of plastics on kidney health.
