Disparities of trace elements and electrolytes in oral cancer patients in comparison with healthy subjects

Oral cancer is increasing worldwide at an alarming rate yet little is known of the impact this increase will have on society. Deficiency or excess of trace elements and electrolytes play a vital role in the development of oral cancer. The aim of the present study was to quantify the elemental and electrolytes levels (Ca, Mg, Sr, K, Na, Li and Co) in the scalp hair, nails and blood of oral cancer patients and counterpart healthy subjects by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Average concentrations of Na, Sr, Li and Co were significantly higher while Mg levels were lower in the scalp hair and nails of the patients compared to the controls. In the blood, mean levels of Mg, Na and Sr were relatively higher and K, Co and Li levels were lower in the oral cancer patients than healthy donors. The correlation study revealed significantly divergent mutual variations among the elements and electrolytes in oral cancer patients and healthy donors. Most of the elements and electrolytes exhibited significant disparities in their concentrations based on gender, abode, dietary habits and smoking habits of the oral cancer patients and healthy subjects. Variations in the elemental and electrolytes levels were also observed for various cancer types (squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma) as well as stages (I, II, III and IV) in the patients. Consequently, quantification of elements and electrolytes in the scalp hair, nails and blood of the oral cancer patients demonstrated prolific data; not only as a diagnostic method but also in providing answers pertaining to the treatment.