Today, we are delighted to highlight the work of our recent practicum student, Erin Craig, an MPH student at the University of South Florida. During her time with us, Erin conducted desk-based research exploring the links between non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and microplastics, which informed the development of her comprehensive policy brief.
We would like to congratulate Erin on her hard work, dedication, and valuable contribution throughout her placement.
You can read a summary of Erin’s work below and download her full policy brief.
Microplastics are an emerging environmental and public health threat, with accumulating evidence linking exposure to inflammation, oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, and an increased risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.
St. Kitts and Nevis faces significant environmental risks, with heavy reliance on imported goods packaged in plastic, limited waste management infrastructure, high per capita waste generation, and a marine-dependent economy (tourism and fisheries). These factors increase the prevalence of plastic waste, which can degrade into fine particles (microplastics) and shed, contaminating the food, water, and coastal environments, thereby increasing chronic human exposure, which can affect the public’s health. This may include contributing to the public’s NCD mortality and morbidity burden, which is the major public health challenge facing the Federation.
This practicum examined the current state of microplastic exposure in St. Kitts and Nevis, evaluated scientific evidence linking microplastics to NCD development, and assessed existing environmental and public health policies. Findings identified major gaps in environmental monitoring, human health surveillance, waste management infrastructure, and regulatory enforcement. While policies such as the Plastic Waste Reduction Bill
represent substantial progress, additional action is needed to mitigate ongoing exposure to microplastics to prevent further damage to environmental and human health.
This project developed a policy brief outlining evidence-based recommendations, including establishing a national microplastics monitoring program, improving import and waste management regulations, strengthening surveillance systems, and increasing community and private-sector collaboration.
You can read the full policy brief here.
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