Effect of zinc supplementation on the development of cardiovascular disease in the elderly

Supplemental zinc intake by an ambulatory elderly population was examined. Health questionnaire, electrocardiogram, laboratory, and medication use data from a geriatric health screening program were compared for 69 participants who were taking zinc supplements and 1,832 participants who were not taking zinc supplements during 1985. A major purpose of this study was to evaluate whether ingestion of zinc supplements by elderly persons is a risk factor for development of cardiovascular disease. No association between zinc supplementation and increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease was found for the indices examined. More information is needed to resolve the question of whether or not zinc supplementation is a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. It is important that elderly persons be provided information to evaluate the possible risk versus benefit of taking zinc supplements.