Effect of smoking and alcohol consumption on the serum selenium level of Lower Silesian population

Serum selenium (Se) levels and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in erythrocytes have been determined for a healthy Lower Silesian population. The results have been analysed in relation to smoking and alcohol consumption habits. The mean concentration of serum Se for the group is within the lower range and appears to be significantly lower in the group of smokers that was studied (smoking over 20 cigarettes/day, mean concentration value=50.8 μg/l), compared to non-smokers (mean value=78.8 μg/l). For men that smoke, the concentration is lower than that found for smoking women, however, the difference is without statistical significance. Regarding GSH-Px activity, no difference between the smoking and non-smoking groups has been found (mean values=19.84 and 20.92 U/gHb, respectively). From the group of people examined, we have selected those who drink an equivalent of 50 g or more of pure ethanol per week. For this group the serum Se level has been found to be lower compared to the group that does not consume that much alcohol. However, the difference is without statistical significance. We have found no correlation between age and the parameters studied (serum Se concentration and GSH-Px activity).