Assessment of serum zinc levels among rural pregnant women in Chengalpettu district, Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Zinc is a micronutrient which is required as a coenzyme for the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins. Zinc deficiency is more common in pregnancy especially in developing countries like India. Prevalence studies on zinc levels in pregnant women in south Indian population are scanty and needs to be evaluated.The aim of this study is to assess the serum zinc levels during pregnancy and its association with their dietary intake and demographic characteristics.This cross sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in rural area of Chengalpettu District, Tamil Nadu.A total of 54 healthy pregnant women were included in the study population. Detailed obstetric history was obtained by using a proforma. Serum zinc levels was estimated by colorimetric method and their average daily dietary intake in terms of zinc was assessed by using a weekly standardized food frequency questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS software.Mean serum zinc levels were 112.35±121.21 µg/dL. Almost 37% of the study participants had zinc deficiency (<60 µg/dL). Average daily dietary intake of zinc of the study participants were in the range of 0-2mg/day against the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 20mg/day which was 12.5% of the RDA.High prevalence of zinc deficiency is due to deficient dietary intake of zinc. Persons on vegetarian diet are more prone for zinc deficiency. Larger studies are required to understand the magnitude of zinc deficiency during pregnancy in India.