Angela Aherrera, DrPH

Research Project:
Hazardous Thread? Physicochemical Characterization, Exposure, and Related Respiratory Health Effects of Microplastics in a Garment Factory

Grant Awarded:

Indoor Air Award

Research Topics:

biomarkers
epidemiology
occupational health
public health
tobacco

Research Diseases:

asthma
COPD
occupational lung disease

Global plastic production has rapidly increased, leading to the generation of microplastics. Microfibers (µF), which represent the world’s largest group of microplastics, often come from clothes. Higher concentrations of airborne microfibers are found indoors compared to outdoor environments. This raises concerns for garment workers who work with high volumes of fabric. Most workers are women of underserved minority groups and work in conditions that lack efficient ventilation. We currently do not know µF compositions in real-world settings, or the respiratory effects of inhaling µF. To investigate this, we plan to conduct an indoor exposure assessment of a garment factory in New York City to characterize µF exposure. We will also recruit 30 workers to interview, collect biosamples to measure µF, and measure their lung function. Lastly, we will evaluate the impact of air cleaners to reduce µF pollution. This will help better understand the impact of airborne microplastics on health and improve indoor air quality.

Page last updated: September 22, 2026

Angela Aherrera, DrPH

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