Public Awareness Of Plastic Pollution And Perceived Risks To Human Health.

Plastic pollution has emerged as a significant environmental and public health concern due to the rapid increase in plastic production, widespread household use, and inadequate waste management. Plastics persist in the environment and undergo fragmentation into microplastics, which have been detected in air, water, food sources, and human tissues, indicating continuous human exposure. In addition to particulate exposure, plastic products contain hazardous chemical additives such as bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and flame retardants, which act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals and are associated with reproductive, metabolic, immunological, and developmental disorders. The present study aims to assess awareness regarding plastic pollution and its human health impacts, examine patterns of daily plastic use, and compare self-reported health outcomes among families using plastic food-contact materials and those using metal or other non-plastic alternatives. A descriptive cross-sectional study design will be adopted among 100–150 participants aged 18–50 years from a selected urban or semi-urban community. Data will be collected using a structured, validated questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, awareness levels, exposure pathways, attitudes, practices, and health-related outcomes. Descriptive statistical analysis will be employed to evaluate awareness patterns and comparative health outcomes. The study is expected to identify gaps in public awareness, highlight household-level exposure risks, and provide evidence to support targeted awareness initiatives, promotion of safer alternatives, and preventive public health strategies in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being).