Influence of Dietary Habits on Oxidative Stress Parameters, Selenium, Copper, and Zinc Levels in the Serum of Patients with Age-Related Cataract.

BACKGROUND

A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens that obscures the passage of light, effectively reducing clarity and sharpness of vision. Although this disease can affect both children and adults, the most common type is the age-related cataract (ARC). The literature describes many potential agents associated with cataract development. However, this study focuses on modifiable factors, especially nutritional ones and those that may induce oxidative stress. The objective of the present study was to assess serum selenium (Se), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) concentrations, as well as the copper/zinc molar ratio (Cu/Zn molar ratio), total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI), of patients with ARC in relation to their dietary habits.

METHODS

A total of 68 patients with ARC and 64 healthy volunteers, with ages ranging from 48 to 92 years, were included in this study. The experimental material collected from the participants consisted of blood samples, which were tested for Se, Cu, and Zn concentrations using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Oxidative stress (OS) parameters, such as TAS and TOS, were estimated spectrophotometrically. In addition, a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to collect information on the dietary habits of ARC patients.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis of the data revealed that the concentrations of Se, Cu, and Zn in serum were significantly lower in ARC patients compared to the controls. In the ARC group, some elements of dietary behavior had a significant effect on the levels of the examined elements and OS parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, eventual alterations to one's diet appear to be worth considering in the context of maintaining homeostasis and adequate mineral levels in ARC patients.