Significant increase in serum levels of copper, zinc, and iron in patients with ischemic heart disease

Background: Cardiovascular disease, such as atherosclerosis, is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. This study was aimed to compare the serum levels of copper, zinc, and iron in patients with ischemic heart disease and healthy individuals in order to achieve a better understanding of the impact of these elements on coronary artery stenosis. Materials and methods: The participants were divided into three groups. The first and second group included patients with significant stenosis in the coronary artery and without any significant stenosis, respectively, and the third group included healthy individuals. The concentrations of copper, zinc, and iron were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results: The highest mean level of the tested elements was observed in group I. Group I had significantly different concentrations for all elements compared with the other groups (p < 0.05). The iron concentration was significantly and inversely associated with body mass index (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Increased levels of copper, zinc, and iron increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and are associated with stenosis of the heart's main arteries.