Positive Health Online

Abstract

AYAORI and colleagues, First Department of Internal Medicine, National Defence Medical College, Saitama, Japan. Ayaori@med5.kufm.kagoshima-u.ac.jp reported on the levels and status of plasma ascorbic acid and lipid peroxidation in smoking.

Background

Active and passive smoking are considered risk factors for a variety of diseases. Plasma vitamin C levels (ascorbic acid) and lipid peroxidation status provide evidence of cellular oxidative stress and are used in this study to indicate the risks of smoking.

Methodology

In this case-control study, 3 groups of healthy males were compared for their plasma vitamin C and lipid peroxidation status. The groups were: 75 active smokers (>15 cigarettes daily for >5 years), 36 passive smokers (>10 hours a week exposure to cigarette smoke) and non-smokers (no cigarette smoke exposure). Measurements made were plasma levels of ascorbic acid (AA), its redox status (ratio of dehydroascorbate (DHAA) to total AA), the levels of thiobarbiturate reactive substance (TBARS) and lipid peroxides (LPO).

Results

There were significantly lower plasma AA levels in active smokers compared to the combined non-smoking groups (p<0.05) and ratio of DHAA to total AA was significantly higher in the active and passive smokers compared to the non-smokers (p<0.05). All other measurements were comparable between groups.

Conclusion

Passive smoking, as well as direct inhalation of cigarette smoke, affects the redox status of plasma AA, suggesting oxidative stress.

References

Ayaori M et al. Plasma levels and redox status of ascorbic acid and levels of lipid peroxidation products in active and passive smokers. Environmental Health Perspectives 108(2): 105-8. Feb 2000.