Selenium research in Serbia, Yugoslavia

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Human Health
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Geochemical data and human health studies indicate potential selenium (Se) deficiency in Serbia.
• Previous research highlights the importance of Se in preventing chronic diseases and its role in human health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess selenium (Se) levels across various environmental samples and human populations in Serbia.
• To investigate the potential correlation between Se deficiency and the incidence of Balkan nephropathy (BN) and urinary tract tumors (UTT).
• To explore the relationship between Se status and mortality rates from cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Main Methods:

• Collected and analyzed Se content in ores, stream sediment, soil, cereal crops, and garlic from 55 Serbian communities.
• Measured Se concentrations in human serum and hair samples from the same communities.
• Correlated environmental and human Se levels with regional health data, including BN, UTT incidence, and mortality rates.

Main Results:

• Widespread and serious selenium (Se) deficiency was identified across Serbia.
• Se levels in crops, food, and human samples in some areas were comparable to low-Se regions in China.
• Regions with higher serum Se levels exhibited significantly lower mortality rates for cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusions:

• The study confirms a significant selenium (Se) deficiency in Serbia, posing potential health risks.
• Low Se levels are hypothesized as a risk factor for Balkan nephropathy and high cancer incidence.
• Adequate Se intake may be crucial for reducing mortality from malignant and cardiovascular diseases in Serbia.