ASSESSMENT OF STUDENTS' AWARENESS ABOUT THE HARMSOF MICROPLASTICS ON THE HUMAN BODY

Abstract

Introduction: Today, the question of the impact of microplastics on the human body is an urgent problem, due to the fact
that microplastics are fractional particles of plastic debris less than 5 mm in size, which can be found in various environments
around us, including water, soil and food products. According to statistics, about 330 microplastic particles enter the human body every day. The level of plastic consumption is growing every year, and this is also due to food delivery services, which
are in great demand among students.
The aim of the work: To assess the awareness of students of Semey Medical University about the dangers of
microplastics on the human body.
Materials and research methods. A single-stage cross-sectional study of 1–5-year students of the Semey Medical
University (Semey, Republic of Kazakhstan). General population = 2343, sample population = 330. We surveyed 659
respondents. Statistical data processing was performed using IBM SPSS Statistic software (Version 22) using descriptive
statistics methods. Confidence interval = 95%.
Research results. The survey results indicate that 578 (87,7%) respondents use plastic products in everyday life, while
only 308 (46,7%) students know what microplastics are. Only 245 (37,2%) students are aware of the impact of microplastics
on the body. A total of 116 (17,6%) indicated the correct category of beverage containers; 58 (8,8%) – for «yolks» from under
kinders; 50 (7,6%) – for cling film; 58 (8,8%) – for reusable plastic tableware; 182 (27,6%) chose the correct answer when
asked about the categories of lunch boxes. 594 (90,1%) of the respondents are concerned about the problem of
environmental pollution associated with improper disposal of plastic waste.
Conclusions: The vast majority of students at Semey Medical University, using plastic products in everyday life, are not
aware of the concept of microplastic and its classification, routes of penetration into the human body and the potential
consequences of its exposure.