Date of Award
Spring 5-2026
Language
English
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Anthropology
Advisor/Committee Chair
Mary Ellen Mallia
Abstract
Microplastics are persistent environmental contaminants increasingly detected in ecosystems and the human body, raising concerns about their effects on health and future generations. This paper examines the environmental pathways, biological mechanisms, and reproductive consequences of microplastic exposure, with particular attention to female reproductive health and fetal development. Current evidence indicates that microplastics can contribute to oxidative stress, inflammation, endocrine disruption, DNA damage, and cellular dysfunction, while also accumulating in reproductive tissues, follicular fluid, placental tissue, and breast milk. These exposures may impair ovarian function, fetal development, and long-term health outcomes. The paper also considers environmental inequalities that may increase exposure among resource-limited populations. Although significant gaps remain in standardized detection methods and long-term human research, existing evidence demonstrates the need for continued investigation, improved waste management, and stronger environmental protections to reduce potential intergenerational harm.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Najafi, Sara, "Microplastics and Generational Harm" (2026). Anthropology. 47.
https://scholarsarchive.library.albany.edu/honorscollege_anthro/47