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:: Volume 16, Issue 1 (spring 2025) ::
j.health 2025, 16(1): 37-44 Back to browse issues page
Investigation of Microplastic in the Nasal Cavity Before and After Face Mask Usage
Maryam Hazrati* *
Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
Abstract:   (30 Views)
Background & objectives: Face masks provide a protective barrier against pathogens and environmental pollutants. However, microplastic particles embedded in mask structure may be inhaled, potentially leading to health concerns. This study aimed to quantify microplastic particles in used face masks and evaluate their presence in nasal lavage fluid before and after mask usage.
Methods: Face masks and nasal lavage fluid samples were collected and analyzed from various departments of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ardabil City.
Results: The highest concentration of microplastic in nasal lavage fluid before mask use was 26.9 microplastics/mL, which decreased to 7.76 microplastics/mL after mask usage. Additionally, the majority of microplastic particles identified ranged between 1.5–25 micrometers in size. The proportion of microplastics within this size range was 69% before mask use, increasing to 88% after mask use.
Conclusion: Face masks effectively reduce exposure to environmental microplastics, highlighting their protective role in limiting inhalation-based contamination. However, microplastics originating from masks themselves may still enter the nasal cavity, necessitating further investigation into mask material composition and potential mitigation strategies.
 
Keywords: Microplastic, Face Mask, Nasal Cavity, Hospital Departments
Full-Text [PDF 346 kb]   (27 Downloads)    
Type of Study: Research | Subject: General
Received: 2025/06/23 | Accepted: 2025/03/30 | Published: 2025/03/30
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Hazrati* M. Investigation of Microplastic in the Nasal Cavity Before and After Face Mask Usage. j.health 2025; 16 (1) :37-44
URL: http://healthjournal.arums.ac.ir/article-1-3001-en.html


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Creative Commons License This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
Volume 16, Issue 1 (spring 2025) Back to browse issues page
مجله سلامت و بهداشت Journal of Health
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