Abstract. Objective: In this study, we evaluated the levels of zinc, copper, iron, and homocysteine in 50- to 55-year-old male patients with newly diagnosed hypertension, and in patients with a diagnosis of hypertension for at least 3 years to a maximum of 5 years who were not under medication. Materials and methods: We evaluated the levels of zinc, copper, iron, and homocysteine in the groups of hypertension patients and in healthy individuals. The study included 50- to 55-year-old male patients who were admitted to the outpatient cardiology clinic of Kahramanmaras Necip Fazil City Hospital, presenting with chest pain, headache, and dizziness. The determination of zinc and copper levels in serum samples was performed using Perkin Elmer Analyst 800 Flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. Iron was measured using a colorimetric assay (Roche Hitachi Cobas C501 autoanalyzer). Homocysteine level was analyzed using ELISA. Results: The serum levels of zinc and copper in patients with newly diagnosed hypertension (group II) and in patients with a diagnosis of hypertension for 3 – 5 years (group III) were significantly lower compared to the control group (group I) (p < 0.001). Accordingly, the levels of homocysteine and iron in group II and group III were significantly higher compared to the control group (p for all < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the serum levels of iron and copper between the groups with hypertension (group II vs. group III) (p = 0.366; p = 0.295, respectively). Whereas homocysteine levels in group III were significantly higher than in group II (p < 0.001); zinc levels in group III were significantly lower than in group II (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Considering these results, we believe that the levels of iron, copper, homocysteine, and zinc have an effect on hypertension development. In addition, the effects of homocysteine and zinc on hypertension might be continued during disease progression. Thus, we believe that the levels of homocysteine and zinc could be an important parameter in the follow-up of hypertension. Additionally, it is necessary to add elements such as copper and zinc as well as antioxidants in the diet of these patients, and to prevent the increase of iron levels in hypertension.
ScienceOpen disciplines: | Endocrinology & Diabetes, General medicine, Medicine, Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Nutrition & Dietetics |
Keywords: | homocysteine , zinc, iron, arterial hypertension, copper |