Serum levels of trace elements in patients with prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Prostate cancer (PC) is a major health concern and may be influenced by trace elements (TEs) like copper, selenium, manganese, and iron. This study aimed to analyze the difference in serum levels of these TEs in PC patients versus healthy controls.

A comprehensive search for relevant literature was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar, including studies up to December 2024. Data was analyzed using RevMan software, with standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for effect size. Subgroup analysis was carried out based on the method used to measure serum levels.

This study analyzed data from 12 articles, including serum copper levels in 11, selenium in 8, manganese in 4, and iron in 6. Serum copper levels were significantly higher in PC patients compared to controls (SMD: 1.85; 95% CI [0.85, 2.86]; p = 0.0003). In contrast, serum selenium levels were substantially lower in PC patients (SMD: - 2.45; 95% CI [- 3.84, - 1.05]; p = 0.0006). Although alterations were observed in serum manganese (SMD: - 0.57; 95% CI [- 2.61, 1.47]; p = 0.58) and iron (SMD: 0.63; 95% CI [- 1.51, 2.76]; p = 0.57) levels, these changes did not reach statistical significance. Subgroup analysis based on measurement methods revealed statistically significant differences between subgroups for copper, selenium, and iron, while no substantial subgroup difference was found for manganese.

The study identified significant changes in serum copper and selenium levels in PC patients, indicating their potential as biomarkers and enhancing our understanding of TE involvement in PC.