Serum zinc and copper in healthy adults living in Bangkok and surrounding districts.

Serum zinc and copper concentrations were evaluated in 312 healthy adults aged 20-80 years, living in Bangkok and surrounding districts, Thailand. Serum zinc and copper levels were related to a range of factors such as sex, age, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, drinking and smoking habits. Serum zinc and copper concentrations in this population were 12.7 +/- 2.3 (mean +/- S.D.) and 18.0 +/- 2.8 mumol/L. Mean serum zinc concentrations in males and females were 12.7 +/- 2.2 and 12.7 +/- 2.3 mumol/L, whereas, mean serum copper was 17.0 +/- 2.8 and 18.6 +/- 2.7 mumol/L, respectively. Serum copper concentrations in women were significantly higher than in men (p < 0.001) while there were significant differences in serum zinc and copper levels with age. Serum copper was found to be elevated in hypertensives. In general, the results of this study agree with previously reported values from different countries.