Journal of Saveh University of Medical Sciences

Study of Microplastics Presence in Soil of Different Areas of Kermanshah City: Quantity, Quality, and Risk Assessment

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Hooshyar Hossini
Maryam Ahmadi
farid azadi
Hiwa Hossaini
Monireh Nouri

Department of Environmental Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22034/jsavehums.2025.547503.1059
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction:
Microplastics, as emerging pollutants, affect soil ecosystems and pose potential risks to human health. This study aimed to investigate the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of microplastics in soils across different areas of Kermanshah City and to assess their ecological and human health risks
Methods:
Soil samples were collected from 10 random points in Kermanshah City. This descriptive cross-sectional study employed saturated sodium chloride (NaCl) solution extraction and microscopic analysis to determine visual characteristics such as shape, color, and size. Ecological risk assessment was conducted using the Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo) and Pollution Load Index (PLI), while human health risk was evaluated using Estimated Daily Intake (EDI)
Results:

The mean abundance of microplastics in the soil was 26.01 particles per kilogram of dry soil. Fibers (61.54%), black-colored particles (53.85%), and particles smaller than 500 μm were the most common. The highest contamination was observed in Elahieh, a residential area, with a PLI of 2.65, indicating severe pollution (Category IV).
Conclustion:
Microplastic contamination was detected in the urban soils of Kermanshah, which may adversely affect soil quality and human health. Improved waste management and implementation of microplastic pollution reduction strategies are essential.
 

Keywords

Microplastics
Soil Pollution
Ecological Risk
Human Exposure
Journal of Saveh University of Medical Sciences
Volume 1, Issue 2
Summer 2025
Pages 38-51

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