Homocysteine Related Vitamins in Smoking and Non-Smoking Secondary polycythemia

Abstract

The amino acid homocysteine is an intermediate in metabolic pathways between the common amino acids methionine and cysteine. The vitamins folate ,and B12 ,and to a lesser extent B6, are needed for its proper functioning .Thus ,low availability of folate ,Bl2,or B 6 can block the path way and lead to a buildup of homocysteine.This study was conducted to determine the levels of homocysteine, lipid peroxidation and vitamins in smokers and non- smokers subjects which they come to the blood bank in orders to eliminates the surplus blood ( secondary polycythemia ). The study population consisted of 40 male patients divided in to two groups; 30 smokers and age matched non- smokers 10 subjects. The mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure values and haematocrit were found to be non-significant . Haemoglobin blood values was found to be significantly(p<0.05) higher for smokers than for non- smokers .Serum Vitamin A Significant decrease(p<0.05)in smokers subjects . Vitamins B12, vitamin E and folate found significantly decrease (p<0.1) in smokers as compared to non-smokers. No significant values in B-carotin vitamin B6 and vitamin C in serum between smokers and non- smokers subjects. There was a significant value(p<0.05) of lipid peroxidation in non smokers than smokers subjects. Serum levels of homocysteine in normal value in both groups .