Selenium concentration levels in whole blood of Belgian blood bank donors, as determined by direct graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry.

Direct graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry after appropriate sample dilution is applied to whole blood of Belgian blood bank donors from different geographical areas. Highest values were obtained for the northern part of the country (Flanders). Different consumption habits may explain the significant difference in selenium level found for the two cultural communities (Flemish and Walloon). No sex difference was obtained in both parts of the country and no influence of age was observed for the two communities. Values obtained are compared with literature data on whole blood selenium content for other European countries.