Spatial Variation of Human Selenium in Ethiopia.

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Environmental Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Selenium (Se) is a vital trace element for human and livestock health.
• Global soil selenium concentrations vary significantly, leading to localized Se deficiency and toxicity.
• Understanding Se status in populations and their environment is crucial for targeted health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess serum selenium concentrations in children aged 69-78 months in the Amhara Region, Ethiopia.
• To investigate the geographical distribution and prevalence of selenium inadequacy across different zones.
• To explore the relationship between dietary diversity and serum selenium levels.

Main Methods:

• Serum samples and dietary data were collected from 555 children in rural Amhara villages.
• Household socio-demographic information was gathered.
• Serum selenium levels were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).

Main Results:

• The median serum selenium concentration was 70.6 μg/l, with 49.1% of children exhibiting selenium inadequacy (serum Se < 70 μg/l).
• A significant geographical disparity was observed: children in western Amhara showed high inadequacy (up to 91.1%), while eastern Amhara had minimal deficiency.
• Dietary diversity scores were higher in eastern Amhara children compared to western counterparts.

Conclusions:

• Serum selenium levels in children across the Amhara Region, Ethiopia, display considerable spatial variation.
• High prevalence of selenium inadequacy, particularly in western Amhara, highlights a significant public health concern.
• Further research into soil characteristics and selenium content in staple crops is recommended to understand the observed geographical patterns.