A comparative study on copper and zinc concentrations in geriatric individuals

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the copper and zinc concentrations in healthy adults, geriatric healthy individuals and two geriatric patient groups with cardiovascular disease and dementia. Material: Control groups were constituted of 15 healthy adults with an average age of 37 years and with geriatric healthy individuals with an average age of 75 years. Geriatric patients with with an average age of 76 years were selected for this comparative study. Method: Red cell copper and zinc concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results: In our study, red cell zinc concentrations of the patient group with cardiovascular disease were found to be increased slightly. On the other hand zinc concentration in patients with dementia was found to be lower compared to other elderly individuals. Red cell copper concentration didn't show a significant change statistically. Conclusion: The results of these four groups were compared and discussed according to their mean age and health status. The relations between copper and zinc concentrations with cardiovascular disease and dementia were evaluated.