Serum selenium status in a group of 386 volunteers from the Czech Republic Rescue Fire Brigades

Abstract

The Czech Republic ranks among the countries with the highest prevalence of dyslipoproteinaemia and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). As a valid tool in the primary prevention of these the authors consider the monitoring of selected components (including metal ions and vitamins) of the antioxidant system in the organism. Oxidative damage of cells and tissues plays an important role in the aetiology of most so-called civilisation diseases. Endogen anti-oxidative protection of the human organism, e.g., in the form of superoxide dismutase, enzymes and selenium (Se), which abolish peroxide hydrogen, or in the form of proteins-binding metals, is insufficient taking into consideration the contemporary way of life in advanced countries. The objective of the present work was to determine total Se in the serum of 386 healthy volunteers from the Rescue Fire Brigades from selected areas of the Czech Republic. The serum Se concentration was determined by the direct electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry method. The mean serum Se concentration was determined between 0.67 and 0.93 μmol/l. There were no significant differences in values between gender, age and body mass index categories. The low levels of the element in the blood are probably due to its deficiency in the diet.