Microplastics found in 90% of prostate cancer tumours

New research from NYU Langone Health detects microplastics in 9 out of 10 prostate cancer tumours, with levels 2.5× higher than healthy tissue

A new study from NYU Langone Health has detected microplastics in 90% of prostate cancer tumours examined, with cancerous tissue containing roughly 2.5 times more plastic particles than nearby healthy prostate tissue. This pilot research, published on February 25, 2026, represents the first Western evidence directly measuring microscopic plastic fragments in human prostate tumours and raises important questions about how environmental plastic exposure might contribute to cancer development.

Microplastics and human health

Plastic materials used in everyday products break down into microscopic fragments when heated, worn down or chemically processed. These particles can then enter the body through food, breathing contaminated air, or skin contact. Previous research has detected microplastics in nearly every organ, bodily fluids, and the placenta. Scientists currently
do not fully understand the extent to which microplastics impact human health.
“Our pilot study provides important evidence that microplastic exposure may be a risk factor for prostate cancer,” said study lead author Stacy Loeb, MD, a professor in the NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s Departments of Urology and Population Health.
Previous research has suggested links between microplastics and conditions such as heart disease and dementia, but little research looks at prostate cancer.

How scientists uncovered the microplastics–cancer link

The researchers reviewed tumour and benign tissue samples and used specialised instruments to measure the quantity, chemical composition, and structure of microplastic particles.
Plastic is widely used in medical and laboratory equipment; therefore, the researchers replaced plastic tools with alternatives made from aluminium, cotton, and other non-plastic materials.
The team focused on 12 of the most common plastic molecules.
The researchers examined prostate tissue collected from ten patients undergoing surgery to remove the gland. They found plastic particles in 90% of tumour samples and in 70% of benign prostate tissue samples.
The team found a notable difference in concentration. On average, tumour samples contained about 2.5 times more plastic than healthy tissue (about 40 micrograms of plastic per gram of tissue compared with 16 micrograms per gram).
“By uncovering yet another potential health concern posed by plastic, our findings highlight the need for stricter regulatory measures to limit the public’s exposure to these substances, which are everywhere in the environment,” said study senior author Vittorio Albergamo, PhD.
The team plans to explore in depth the role of microplastics in cancer development. One possibility is that the particles cause a prolonged immune response (inflammation) in prostate tissue. Over time, chronic inflammation can damage cells and result in genetic changes leading to cancer.
They emphasised that the study involved a small group of patients and that larger studies will be necessary to confirm the findings.