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Serum copper levels in gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancer
A P Narang1, A Verma, G R Kumar
1Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India.
Journal of Trace Elements and Electrolytes in Health and Disease
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Serum copper levels are significantly elevated in gastrointestinal (GI) and non-GI cancer patients in Kashmir. However, ceruloplasmin levels showed no significant difference across groups, suggesting copper
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancer is prevalent in the Kashmir Valley.
- Dietary and environmental factors, such as the widespread use of copper utensils, may influence trace element levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate serum copper and ceruloplasmin levels in patients with GIT cancer compared to non-GIT cancer patients and healthy controls.
- To explore potential correlations between elevated copper levels and cancer incidence in the region.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were collected from 75 GIT cancer patients, 42 non-GIT cancer patients, and 75 healthy controls.
- Serum copper and ceruloplasmin concentrations were measured using standard laboratory assays.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare levels between groups.
Main Results:
- Mean serum copper was significantly higher in both GIT cancer (1,738 mg/L) and non-GIT cancer patients (1,449 mg/L) compared to controls (1,078 mg/L) (p < 0.001).
- Serum copper levels were significantly higher in GIT cancer patients than in non-GIT cancer patients (p < 0.01).
- No significant differences in serum ceruloplasmin levels were observed among the three groups.
Conclusions:
- Elevated serum copper levels are associated with both GIT and non-GIT cancers in the Kashmir Valley population.
- The high copper content in local food and beverages, due to the use of copper utensils, may contribute to increased serum copper.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the role of copper in carcinogenesis and its implications for cancer prevention in this region.