The health threats posed by Covid masks
A study published in the journal Environmental Pollution says that the many billions of face masks worn globally during the Covid pandemic now pose a significant threat to the environment as well as to humans and wildlife.
Materials such as polypropylene, polyester, nylon, and PVC are used in the production of masks. Laboratory tests have revealed that even without wear or physical stress, microplastics and chemicals are released into waterways and the environment.
One chemical in particular, Bisphenol B, is a known endocrine disruptor that acts like estrogen when absorbed by the body. This can potentially increase the risk of breast and prostate cancers, along with metabolic and cardiovascular issues.
Researchers at Coventry University, where the studies were conducted, say the results underlie the urgent need to rethink how masks are produced, used, and disposed of.
It’s speculation on my part, but these threats posed by masks likely won’t be undone. It would be great, however, if forward-thinking and proactive decision-makers allocated funds to develop safer mask alternatives before the next pandemic.
You can learn more about the impact of Covid masks in this article from Interesting Engineering.
https://interestingengineering.com/health/covid-masks-microplastics-envi...
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Wilsons Grave
Seems to be true with everything in life, there's the plus and the minus. Masks might keep us from a quick virus death, but don't prevent the slow death of inhaling their fibers or crudding up the larger environment. I sure like the idea of inventing a healthier version of the mask. They've had plenty of time to do that, but maybe they don't really give a hoot about anything other than making their next buck.
Slipstream
I don't think much of anything we breath or consume these days is all that healthy. Let's face it—we roll the dice on just about everything and pray it goes our way. Interesting article nonetheless. Thanks for posting it.