Blood copper levels in Mexican users of the T380A IUD

Objective: Copper T380A is one of the most commonly prescribed intrauterine devices (IUDs). However, there are few reports of its systemic health effects. This study evaluates the association between the use of T380A IUD and blood Cu levels in a group of Mexican users. Methods: Eighty-six T380A users and eight nonusers were recruited. Blood Cu levels were measured using an atomic absorption spectrophotometic technique. Results: In IUD users, mean blood Cu level was significantly higher than in nonusers, 216.63 vs. 107.47 mu g/dL (p <=.001), and above the normal blood Cu level range of 80-160 mu g/dL. No significant difference in blood Cu levels was observed by age or length of time of IUD use. Conclusions: The observed higher blood Cu levels among T380A user stands out in sharp contrast to previous reports of other types of Cu IUDs. Further research should evaluate if the observed levels are associated to toxic effects with the general population or special groups. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.