The amount of microplastics in human brains has tripled; less than 7% worldwide receive effective mental health treatment; diet could influence risk of depression, Alzheimer’s disease – Morning Medical Update

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The amount of microplastics in human brains has increased, and may be linked to dementia

A study published in Nature Medicine by University of New Mexico Health Sciences researchers found that human brains now contain 50% more microplastics than they did eight years ago, with dementia patients harboring up to 10 times as much plastics as everyone else. The research, which compared autopsy samples from 2016 and 2024, detected 12 types of polymers — most commonly polyethylene — and suggests that the minute size of micro- and nanoplastics, at 200 nanometers or less, may allow for easier infiltration into the brain.

Matthew Campen, lead researcher on the study and a toxicologist, linked the accumulation of microplastics to increasing global plastic waste and potential biomagnification through the food chain. CBS News has more.

Less than 7% worldwide receive effective mental health treatment

Researchers from the University of British Colombia and Harvard Medical School found that just 6.9% of people with mental health or substance-use disorders receive effective treatment. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, analyzed data from nearly 57,000 participants across 21 countries, over 19 years. The study revealed that, although 46.5% of respondents recognized their need for treatment, only 34.1% sought help, and although 82.9% of those received minimally adequate care, just 47% of that group ultimately received care that met evidence-based standards.

Diet could influence the risk of depression and Alzheimer’s Disease

A study from Edith Cowan University has found that healthy dietary patterns may lessen the negative impact of depressive symptoms on blood-based biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers noted that nutritional factors, including those present in the Mediterranean diet — rich in plant foods, olive oil and whole grains — can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. The study highlights that, although depression may both precede and exacerbate Alzheimer’s disease, dietary interventions could play a role in delaying disease onset, though further research is required.