Correlation between Selenium and Zinc Levels and Survival among Prostate Cancer Patients

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Nutritional Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in males.
• Survival rates are good but can be improved by optimizing risk factors.
• Micronutrients like selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) are potential modifiable factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of optimal selenium and zinc levels on prostate cancer patient survival.
• To explore the interaction between Se and Zn in the context of prostate cancer prognosis.

Main Methods:

• Serum levels of Se and Zn were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in 338 Polish prostate cancer patients (2009-2015).
• Participants were stratified into quartiles based on Se and Zn levels.
• Cox regression analysis was employed to evaluate the association between element levels and survival.

Main Results:

• A significant association was observed between combined Se and Zn levels and prostate cancer patient survival.
• The hazard ratio (HR) for the lowest vs. highest quartiles of Se and Zn was 20.9 (SeQI-ZnQI vs. SeQIV-ZnQIV).

Conclusions:

• Combined selenium and zinc levels appear to influence survival in prostate cancer patients.
• Further research is required to establish population-specific Se/Zn nutritional norms for cancer patients.