[Evaluation of serum zinc status in Neyriz school children]

ABSTRACT

Zinc is one of the essential trace elements that exists in the structure of many enzymes and is essential for growth, development, reproduction, central nerves system and immune system function. This study was carried out to determine serum zinc status in primary school children in Neyriz. This cross-sectional study was carried out on 205 primary school children that randomly selected with range 7-11 year. 3ml fasting blood venous was obtained of children and serum zinc level was measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Mean serum zinc concentrations was 88.08 34.37 micro g/dl that significantly was higher in boys [P=0.01]. 30.2% of them had zinc deficiency. +/- Results show that the zinc deficiency is a nutritional problems in primary school children. Further study for finding causes of zinc deficiency and removing it through educationing parents are recommended