Resumen

VARGAS, Maria Eugenia et al. Influencia del hábito de fumar sobre las concentraciones séricas de zinc, cobre y selenio en adultos jóvenes. AVFT [online]. 2007, vol.26, n.1, pp.42-45. ISSN 0798-0264.

Zinc, copper, and selenium are cofactors of antioxidant enzymes. Low serum levels of these minerals can result in health risks, because they play a preventive role in degenerative diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of cigarette smoking habit on the serum concentrations of these cofactors in young adults. The study was performed on 40 healthy young men between the ages of 18 to 25 years, with normal body mass index, and adequate nutrient intake according to nutritional requirements. Sample was divided in a control group (n=20) and a chronic smokers group (n=20). Zinc, copper, and selenium were quantified in serum sample by atomic absorption spectrometry. Mineral intake was estimated by means of a 24 hours recall and food frequency consumption questionnaires. The serum level of zinc in the smokers (0,36 ± 0,10 mg/L) was significantly lower than in the controls (0,71 ± 0,09 mg/L). There were no significant differences in serum copper and selenium between smokers and controls. Results indicate that even though dietary intake of minerals in smokers was adequate, the habitual diet is not able to maintain the serum zinc concentration in the normal ranges, thus making them more susceptible to oxidative stress.

Palabras clave : Zinc; copper; selenium; antioxidant; smoking; free radicals.