Serum trace elements in obese Egyptian children: a case-control study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Nutritional Science
• Metabolic Health

Background:

• Childhood obesity is a growing concern with limited research on trace element (TE) involvement.
• TEs play a role in obesity pathogenesis and related diseases.
• This study investigates TE status in obese Egyptian children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess trace element status (zinc, copper, selenium, iron, chromium) in obese Egyptian children.
• To examine the relationship between these trace elements and serum leptin levels.
• To explore associations with obesity-related metabolic risk factors.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 80 obese children and 80 healthy controls.
• Measured serum levels of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), selenium (Se), iron (Fe), ferritin, and chromium (Cr).
• Assessed lipid profile, glucose, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and serum leptin via ELISA.

Main Results:

• Obese children had significantly lower serum Zn, Se, and Fe, and higher Cu compared to controls.
• Serum leptin negatively correlated with Zn levels in obese children.
• Zn levels correlated negatively with total cholesterol and positively with HDL-C; Se correlated positively with HOMA-IR.

Conclusions:

• Obese children exhibit trace element imbalances, particularly deficiencies.
• These imbalances may contribute to the pathogenesis of obesity and associated metabolic issues.
• Further research is warranted to understand TE's role in pediatric obesity.