Research results from Professor Kim Dong-hyun’s research team at Korea University Anam Hospital
Researchers “recommend discarding more than two drops before use”
A study showed that discarding at least two drops of artificial tears reduces the amount of microplastics exposed to the eyes.
The research team, led by Professor Kim Dong-hyeon of the Department of Ophthalmology at Korea University Anam Hospital, measured the amount of microplastics detected in five artificial tear products used in Korea. As a result, the number of microplastic particles appearing in the first drop of 4 out of 5 products was an average of 0.5 per 30 mL (range of error ±0.65). The remaining artificial tears after subtracting the first drop had an average of 0.75 (±0.72) per 30 mL. However, after discarding the second drop, the average number decreased to 0.14 (±0.35) per 30 mL.
The research team determined that the first drop of artificial tears contains a lot of microplastics, so if you use them for 1 year (4 times a day), about 730 microplastic particles can be exposed to the eye. If you discard two drops and use them, the number of microplastics exposed in a year will be reduced to about 204. The research team reported that no microplastics were detected in the remaining solution after about half was removed. The research team recommended, “It would be safer to discard more than two drops.”
The research team said, “Research has shown that microplastics that enter the eyes through artificial tears not only remain in the eye tissue, but also spread throughout the body through the conjunctival blood vessels, nasal cavity, and lacrimal glands.” Professor Kim, who led the research, emphasized, “As long-term misuse of artificial tears can cause damage due to exposure to microplastics, the government should inform people of the dangers of microplastics in artificial tears and provide proper usage guidelines to prevent misuse.”
Jo Hye-sun, Donga.com reporter [email protected]
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How should consumers safely use artificial tears based on Professor Kim’s recommendations?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Professor Kim Dong-hyun
Editor: Welcome, Professor Kim. It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. Your recent study on artificial tears and microplastics has raised significant concerns. Can you summarize the key findings for our readers?
Professor Kim: Thank you for having me. Our research focused on the presence of microplastics in various artificial tear products commonly used in South Korea. We discovered that the first drop of these products contained an average of 0.5 microplastic particles per 30 mL. Remarkably, discarding the first two drops reduced that number significantly to an average of just 0.14 microplastic particles per 30 mL.
Editor: That’s alarming! So, how does this translate to long-term use? What could the consequences be for an average user?
Professor Kim: If a person uses artificial tears multiple times a day, the long-term exposure to microplastics could be concerning. Over the course of a year, using the first drop directly could lead to exposure to about 730 microplastic particles. By discarding the first two drops, that number could drop to around 204 particles. This reduction is crucial since microplastics can remain in the eye tissue and potentially spread throughout the body.
Editor: It sounds like your recommendation to discard the first two drops is essential for user safety. What prompted you to investigate this issue in the first place?
Professor Kim: The rising awareness of microplastic pollution in our environment and their potential health impacts sparked our interest. We aimed to determine if these tiny particles are also making their way into products that directly affect our health, such as artificial tears.
Editor: Given your findings, what steps do you think should be taken moving forward? Should there be regulatory changes or public health campaigns?
Professor Kim: Absolutely. It’s vital for health authorities and the government to inform consumers about the risks associated with microplastics in artificial tears. Not only should there be safety guidelines on how to use these products—such as discarding the first two drops—but there should also be ongoing research into the safety of other types of products we routinely use.
Editor: Do you believe that artificial tear manufacturers should also be accountable for monitoring and potentially reducing microplastic content in their products?
Professor Kim: Yes, manufacturers should prioritize the safety of their products and investigate methods to minimize or eliminate microplastics. Transparency in their processes and ingredients can greatly help build consumer trust.
Editor: It’s encouraging to see researchers like you advocating for public safety. What message do you hope to convey to users of artificial tears?
Professor Kim: I want to emphasize the importance of being informed consumers. It’s not just about immediate relief for dry eyes; understanding what we are exposing ourselves to matters. Taking small precautions, such as discarding the first two drops, can significantly reduce our risks.
Editor: Thank you, Professor Kim, for sharing these important insights. This research is not only fascinating but critically important for public health discourse. We appreciate your time and dedication to this vital issue.
Professor Kim: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing this research, and I hope it sparks further interest and action in the field.