Microplastics are a veritable plague on humanity, filling the air and the water with pieces so small they’re impossible to see and avoid. And that could have implications for the health of humanity.

Now, French researchers say we’re inhaling a vast amount of them from indoor air, especially in our vehicles.

The team of scientists used sophisticated detection methods and estimated that we inhale about 68,000 microplastics daily. That’s the equivalent of up to four particles per breath.

That number is 100 times higher than earlier estimates, mostly because the new figure is based on the detection of smaller particles than previously observed.

Microplastics are just about everywhere in the environment. Concern about them has climbed in the last couple of years as they are increasingly found in human organs.

These plastics can be smaller than a bacterium, or one micrometer. When we inhale them, they can make their way into our blood and eventually find a home in human tissue. They’ve been found in many organs, including the brain.

These pollutants can cause inflammation and cell damage, and even carry toxins as we inhale them.

Levels of microplastics are four times higher in our cars than in our homes. The higher count is partially the result of a more confined space and increased ultraviolet radiation exposure.

The study’s detection limit is one micrometer. The next step is to break that barrier and measure even smaller particles.

Experts suggest opening windows to dilute concentrations, using HEPA air purifiers, vacuuming and not overheating plastic. Oh, and avoid plastics as much as you can.

These days, that’s easier said than done.