Microplastics Found in Majority of Prostate Cancer Tumors

Study reveals concerning presence of common consumer plastics in prostate cancer tissue samples

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Recent research presented at the ASCO Genitourinary Cancers Symposium found microplastics in 90% of prostate cancer tumor samples, with concentrations more than double those found in surrounding benign prostate tissue. The study, led by Dr. Stacy Loeb of NYU Grossman School of Medicine, identified prevalent types of microplastics like nylon-6, polystyrene, polyethylene, and polyethylene copolymers.

Why it matters

The discovery of microplastics in prostate cancer tumors raises urgent concerns about the potential health impacts of widespread plastic exposure. Prior research has linked microplastics to increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and all-cause mortality, underscoring the need to better understand how these ubiquitous particles may be affecting human health, especially in relation to cancer.

The details

Researchers analyzed tissue samples from 10 men with prostate cancer who were scheduled for radical prostatectomy. Using rigorous protocols to minimize contamination, they found microplastics in 90% of tumor samples and 70% of benign tissue samples. Tumor samples exhibited a mean microplastic concentration of 39.8 μg/g, more than double the 15.5 μg/g found in surrounding benign tissue.

  • The study was presented at the ASCO Genitourinary Cancers Symposium held from February 26-28, 2026 in San Francisco.

The players

Stacy Loeb, MD, MSc

A professor of urology and population health at NYU Grossman School of Medicine who led the research study on microplastics in prostate cancer tumors.

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What they’re saying

“We all should be worried about the amount of plastics we're exposed to.”

— Stacy Loeb, MD, MSc, Professor of urology and population health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine (Newsy-Today.com)

“It's scary that we literally locate pieces of water bottle in somebody's prostate tumor. These are incredibly common consumer plastics.”

— Stacy Loeb, MD, MSc, Professor of urology and population health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine (Newsy-Today.com)

What’s next

Researchers have received a grant to expand their study to 30 patients, with data expected within the next year. Loeb emphasized the need to study microplastics in relation to other cancers and health conditions linked to inflammation.

The takeaway

The discovery of microplastics in prostate cancer tumors underscores the ubiquitous nature of plastic pollution and the urgent need to better understand its potential health impacts. Taking proactive steps to reduce personal plastic exposure, such as avoiding heating food in plastic containers and choosing non-plastic alternatives, can help mitigate this growing public health concern.