Association Between Blood Selenium Levels and Stroke: A Study Based on the NHANES (2011-2018)

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Epidemiology
• Cardiovascular Health
• Trace Element Research

Background:

• The relationship between circulating selenium and stroke risk remains debated.
• Previous studies had limited sample sizes, necessitating further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between blood selenium levels and stroke in a large adult population.
• To investigate the dose-response relationship and potential interaction effects.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from 13,755 adults (aged ≥20 years) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2018.
• Multivariate logistic regression and smooth curve fitting were used to assess the association and dose-response effects.
• Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore interactions with body mass index (BMI) and uric acid.

Main Results:

• Blood selenium levels showed a significant negative association with stroke (OR=0.57, 95% CI: 0.37-0.87).
• The highest tertile of blood selenium was associated with lower stroke risk compared to the lowest tertile (OR=0.70, 95% CI: 0.53-0.93).
• A significant linear relationship was observed, with stronger negative associations noted in individuals with BMI 25-30 kg/m².

Conclusions:

• Blood selenium levels are negatively and linearly associated with stroke risk in American adults.
• Selenium may play a protective role against stroke, particularly in specific BMI ranges.
• Further cohort studies are recommended to confirm these findings.