Measuring the Awareness of University Students Educated in the Field of Health about Microplastics and its Effects on Human Health
Keywords:
microplastic, awareness, health, students, attitude, behaviorAbstract
Microplastics, which are released by the breakdown of plastics, adversely affect health by accumulating in various tissues in the human body through packaging, transportation, water and air. In recent years, it is frequently preferred in every field in terms of cheap and comfortable use. The negative effects of microplastics on human health is an issue that needs to be developed in social awareness. It is important to raise awareness of people who will become health personnel in the future, both in terms of their own health and in raising awareness of other people. In this study, it was aimed to measure the awareness of the effects of microplastics on human health among students studying at Toros University Health Services. Microplastic Pollution Awareness Scale was applied to 410 students aged between 19-23 years, studying at Toros University Health Services Vocational School, by using appropriate sampling method to measure their microplastic awareness. The results were evaluated by statistical analysis. When the results of the survey were examined, there were significant differences in total scores between men and women, between the ages of 17-22 and those aged 20-23 and above, between those who use plastic bags and those who use paper or cloth bags (p<0.001). Especially through food, microplastics accumulate in various tissues and cause negative effects on human health. Larger studies are needed to raise public awareness of the negative health effects of microplastics.
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