Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Blood Serum Samples of Leukemia Patients in Iraq: Impact of Radiation Therapy.

This study looks at the presence of heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and copper in blood serum samples from leukemia patients in Iraq. These metals can be dangerous to health, especially following the Gulf War and the 2003 War, which worsened contamination from human activities. The research aims to understand how much heavy metals affect leukemia patients and to suggest ways to protect public health. Blood samples were taken from 49 patients before and after radiotherapy, alongside a control group of 20 healthy individuals. Results indicated a significant rise in lead levels after treatment, three times higher than before and four times higher than in the control group. Cadmium levels did not change much, while copper levels were slightly lower than in the control group. The study found notable gender differences, with males showing higher lead levels post-treatment, and higher levels in younger individuals and smokers. This suggests a link between radiation therapy, smoking, and heavy metal exposure, highlighting the need for preventive health measures.