Ana Kujavec

Ms. Ana Kujavec


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

View All Publications
28 March 2026 in Children
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
AKAna Kujavec
Ana Kujavec
MOManuela Oroz
Manuela Oroz
JPJan Pantlik
Jan Pantlik
IBIvana Banic
Ivana Banic
SMSandra Mijač
Sandra Mijač
MTMirjana Turkalj
Mirjana Turkalj
Background: Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are widespread environmental contaminants with growing evidence linking them to adverse health effects, including progression and worsening of allergic diseases. As allergies are rapidly increasing among youth (affecting almost 30% of children), this demographic represents a vulnerable population facing emerging environmental threats. Since no prior study has investigated MNP risks perceptions in an allergic population, this study aimed to assess public awareness and risk perception of MNP in Croatian youth, focusing on the influence of urbanicity, education, and allergy status. Methods: A total of 1155 participants (aged 6–18 years) were recruited from three Croatian regions as part of the EU Horizon 2020 IMPTOX and the Horizon Europe EDIAQI studies. Allergy status was determined via skin prick tests (SPT), and standardized questionnaires were used to collect data on MNP awareness and perception. Results: Awareness was significantly higher among allergic individuals (89.5% vs. non-allergic 79%, FDR p value= 0.036) and those with university-level education (88.3% vs. elementary 63.3%, FDR p value = 0.050). Allergic participants were also more concerned about food contamination by MNPs (87.7%) compared to non-allergic individuals (79.2%), FDR p value = 0.005). Media and social media were the primary sources of information regarding MNPs (FDR p value = 0.026). Conclusions: Education and allergy status are the strongest predictors of MNP awareness and related risk perceptions in the Croatian population. Targeted public health communication and educational strategies are needed to translate basic awareness into informed behavioral and policy engagement.