Poster Subject: Health Studies

Poster Title: Micro and Nano Plastic (MNP) in Placenta, Fetal Transfer and Healthcare Adaptation in NL

Bio: Esther Herat is passionate about the impact the poly crisis is having on human health and is especially concerned about the ingestion of micro and nano plastic pollution. She is a non clinical professional in healthcare and currently supports the Provincial Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Program at NLHS. She is a non-clinical member of CAPE (Canadian Physicians for the Environment). She is also on a national research team on environmental protection spearheaded by Dr. Angela Carter, the Research Chair in Equitable Energy Governance and Public Policy. Esther is currently working on her research project under the supervision of Dr. Lucien Ashworth and is committed to positively impacting healthcare accessibility, especially in the age of enhanced MPN pollution, by all communities in NL.

Abstract: Micro and nano plastic (MNP) pollution is escalating alongside increased fossil fuel extraction in Newfoundland and Labrador, leading to a surge in disposable plastic production. With approximately 275 million tons of plastic waste generated globally each year, much of it mismanaged, plastics degrade into harmful MNP that infiltrate various ecosystems, posing significant threats to human health. Recent studies indicate that MNP can disrupt placental function, leading to adverse outcomes for both mothers and their offspring, including deformities and impaired organ development. Additionally, there are rising concerns regarding male infertility linked to MNP exposure. This pollution presents a dual challenge for women, potentially relegating them to primary caregivers for affected children and limiting their economic contributions. Moreover, the healthcare system struggles to adapt to these emerging challenges, hampered by inadequate design and responsiveness to changing patient demographics. Urgent action is needed to address the multifaceted impacts of MNP pollution on health and economic stability, particularly for women and families.

Corresponding Author's Email: eherat@mun.ca