Nicosia: Microplastics have been detected for the first time in urine samples from children in Cyprus, according to preliminary findings of a study. A press release issued by Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) stated that further research is needed to confirm systematic detection of microplastics in children's urine. The study aims to understand how children are exposed to microplastics and to determine any potential health impacts.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the findings emerged from a collaborative study between the Cyprus International Institute for Environmental and Public Health (CII) at CUT and researchers from the University of Catania in Italy. The study offers preliminary evidence indicating that microplastics can be detected in the urine of primary school children living in Cyprus.

The study suggests that children may be exposed to microplastics in ways that allow these particles to enter and circulate within their bodies. Using advanced laboratory methods, researchers detected very small plastic particles and identified the types of plastic present in the urine samples. The report notes that polyethylene and polypropylene were the most frequently detected types.

The study also observed differences in the quantity of microplastics detected among the children. However, given the limited number of participants and the descriptive nature of the analyses, these differences should not be considered as evidence of clear distinctions between groups.

CUT emphasized in its press release that the findings are preliminary and should be interpreted with caution. Further research will be required to confirm systematic detection of microplastics in children's urine, to better understand exposure pathways, and to assess potential health impacts on children.