Correlation between the levels of certain carcinogenic and anticarcinogenic trace elements and esophageal cancer in northern Iran.

Levels of four carcinogenic (Ni, Fe, Cu, Pb) and four anticarcinogenic (Zn, Se, Mn, Mg) trace elements were measured in hair samples from esophageal cancer patients, their unaffected family members, and members of families with no history of cancer. Measurements were also made in non-esophageal cancer patients, using atomic absorption spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma-emission spectroscopy, and neutron activation analysis. The results showed that Ni and Cu concentrations were significantly higher and Mg and Mn concentrations were significantly lower in all cancer cases. Levels of Zn, Fe, Se, and Pb were not significantly different in the above-mentioned groups. In addition, the serum albumin fraction, which is reported to have antioxidant activity, was found to be significantly lower among esophageal cancer patients.