THE PLASMA CONCENTRATIONS OF ESSENTIAL TRACE ELEMENTS IN WOMEN WITH CANCER OF BREAST- OR CERVIX

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biochemistry
• Trace Element Analysis

Background:

• Trace element derangements are linked to systemic inflammation and oxidative stress in carcinogenesis.
• Altered levels of essential metals may play a role in cancer development and progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate plasma trace element concentrations in female patients diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer.
• To compare trace element levels between cancer patients and a healthy control group.

Main Methods:

• Plasma samples from 30 breast cancer patients, 30 cervical cancer patients, and 30 controls were analyzed.
• Concentrations of zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), selenium (Se), and copper (Cu) were measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES).

Main Results:

• Significantly reduced plasma levels of iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) were observed in both breast and cervical cancer patients compared to controls.
• Plasma concentrations of Fe, Cu, zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se) were lower in breast cancer patients, and stage 2 cervical cancer patients, compared to cervical cancer patients.

Conclusions:

• Blood metal levels vary significantly across different cancer types.
• This supports the need for individualized trace element supplementation strategies in cancer therapy.