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The Relationship Between Serum Copper and Overweight/Obesity: a Meta-analysis
Kunfang Gu1, Xuekui Li2, Wenzhi Xiang1
1Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, The Medical College of Qingdao University, No. 38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao, 266021, China.
This meta-analysis found higher serum copper levels in obese children and adults compared to healthy controls. While overweight individuals showed no significant difference, elevated copper may be linked to obesity risk.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Human Physiology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- The association between serum copper (Cu) levels and overweight/obesity is debated.
- Previous studies have yielded conflicting results regarding this relationship.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a meta-analysis evaluating the relationship between serum copper levels and overweight/obesity.
- To synthesize existing evidence to clarify the association in both children and adults.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major databases (PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang) up to March 20, 2019.
- A random-effect model (REM) was used to calculate the combined standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).
- Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger's test.
Main Results:
- Twenty-one articles were included in the meta-analysis.
- Serum Cu levels were significantly higher in obese children (SMD 0.74) and obese adults (SMD 0.39) compared to controls.
- No significant difference in serum Cu was observed between overweight and control groups in either children or adults.
Conclusions:
- Higher serum copper levels may be associated with an increased risk of obesity in both children and adults.
- Subgroup analyses confirmed elevated serum Cu in obese children and adults.
- Further research is needed to confirm these findings and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
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