Selenium status of elderly Austrians suffering from circulation disorders

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Health
• Nutritional Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Selenium is an essential trace element with antioxidant properties.
• Cardiovascular disorders are a significant public health concern.
• Understanding nutrient status in relation to cardiovascular health is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the whole blood selenium status of individuals attending a clinic for heart and circulation disorders.
• To investigate potential correlations between selenium levels and cardiovascular risk markers.

Main Methods:

• Whole blood samples were collected from 299 participants (144 women, 155 men) aged 62 +/- 10 years.
• Selenium content was measured, with a mean value of 95 micrograms/l.
• Statistical analyses were performed to assess correlations with glutathione peroxidase, cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Main Results:

• The mean whole blood selenium concentration was 95 micrograms/l.
• No statistically significant correlations were observed between selenium levels and glutathione peroxidase activity.
• No significant correlations were found between selenium levels and lipid profiles (cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides).

Conclusions:

• The selenium status in this cohort of Austrian adults with cardiovascular complaints was within a certain range.
• Selenium levels did not appear to be directly correlated with common biomarkers of cardiovascular risk in this population.
• Further research may be needed to explore the complex relationship between selenium and cardiovascular health.