Slowly Killing Us? Plastic Waste’s Effects on American Health

Abstract

This article focuses on how plastic use is detrimental to environmental and human health. Specifically, it discusses how chemicals called phthalates and microplastics are linked to cancer and babies being born with defects. Phthalates and microplastics are chemicals that are found in common items such as food containers, toys, and makeup. Tons of plastic waste from hospitals and factories are directly inhibiting environmental growth, and especially causing damage to aquatic environments. This article calls for the United States to cut out disposable plastic and make more laws to protect people's health and future generations in turn.