BPOM Warns Microplastics Can Trigger Vascular Disorders, Calls for Urgent Global Laboratory Strengthening

The Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has stated that microplastics and nanoplastics can trigger vascular disorders in humans. BPOM Head Taruna Ikrar explained that the massive use of plastic without adequate preparation can lead to public health problems, as particles may enter the vascular system, become lodged, and injure the endothelial lining. He cited a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine linking microplastics to atherosclerosis, a narrowing of the arteries. Taruna emphasized that strengthening high-quality, globally interconnected laboratories is an urgent need to address modern health challenges, including microplastics, illegal drugs, and food safety. He noted that robust laboratory networks enable faster detection and testing of new health risks. BPOM is cooperating with international partners such as the World Health Organization and the Asian Development Bank to develop laboratories in Indonesia to better prepare for future health threats.