Comparison of Trace Element Concentrations in Women with Breast Cancer and Lung Cancer and Healthy Women

Aims Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women worldwide, that Because of their lengthy life expectancy, these individuals are at increased risk of having second primary malignancies in their lifetime. The aim of this study was to compare the concentrations of trace elements in women with breast cancer and lung cancer and healthy women. Instruments & Methods In this descriptive study, women with breast cancer (n=44), lung cancer (n=44) and healthy individuals (n=80) were sampled in Najaf city, Iraq. Blood samples were taken from the subjects, then copper, zinc and nickel levels were assessed. Findings Serum Cu levels in women with lung cancer and healthy women were significantly lower than women with breast cancer (p<0.05). Furthermore, serum Cu levels in women with lung cancer were significantly lower than healthy women (p<0.05). Healthy women had the highest levels of zinc and nickel compared to the groups of women with breast cancer and lung cancer (p<0.01). Moreover, serum zinc and nickel levels were significantly higher in women with lung cancer compared to women with breast cancer (p<0.05). Conclusion Serum concentrations of trace elements increase in some groups and decrease in others, and there is a link between some elements that can be used as a means of early detection.