Frequent Plastic Usage Behavior and Lack of Microplastic Awareness Correlates with Cognitive Decline: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Introduction: Microplastics (MPs) are widespread environmental pollutants with possible neurotoxic effects. Exploring links between plastic use, MP awareness, and cognition is key for assessing public health risks. Objective: To examine correlations between plastic consumption, MP awareness and attitudes, and neurocognitive function among Greater Jakarta residents. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 562 adults used a validated e-questionnaire covering plastic usage, MP knowledge, attitudes, risk perception, and cognition via the Ascertain Dementia 8 (AD-8). Analyses included chi-square, t-tests, and logistic regression. Results: Suspected cognitive impairment (AD-8 ≥ 2) was observed in 44.5% of respondents. High single-use plastic consumption correlated with worse cognition (p = 0.032), while reusable plastic use showed no association (p = 0.605). Awareness of MPs was relatively low, with 19.4% of respondents having never heard of them. Awareness and knowledge also varied significantly by age (p = 0.007), gender (p = 0.004), and education level (p = 0.027). Positive attitudes and higher risk perception aligned with greater awareness (p < 0.001) but not cognitive scores. Risk perception influenced bottled water use (p = 0.009), with low-risk groups consuming more. Conclusions: Frequent single-use plastic consumption is linked to poorer cognition, while MP awareness and risk perception do not directly affect cognitive outcomes. Educational strategies may enhance awareness and reduce exposure.