Assessment of Zinc, Selenium and Vitamin C Status in Maternal and Umbilical Cord Blood of Intrapartum Women in Enugu Metropolis, Enugu State, Nigeria

Adilieje, C. M. and Ejezie, C. S. and Obianyido, H. O. and Ugwu, C. C. and Ezeadichie, Obinna Stanley and Ejezie, F. E. (2025) Assessment of Zinc, Selenium and Vitamin C Status in Maternal and Umbilical Cord Blood of Intrapartum Women in Enugu Metropolis, Enugu State, Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice, 28 (5). 565- 573.

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Abstract

Background: Zinc, selenium, and vitamin C are vital antioxidants that mitigate oxidative stress. Pregnancy-induced metabolic changes may alter their levels, affecting maternal and fetal health. Aim: This study evaluated zinc, selenium, and vitamin C concentrations in maternal and umbilical cord blood of women in labor in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 48 mother-neonate pairs. Maternal and umbilical cord blood samples (5 mL each) were collected postpartum. Zinc and selenium were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, while vitamin C was measured colorimetrically. Results: Mean maternal and cord serum zinc levels were 41.61 ± 2.45 µg/dL and 42.65 ± 4.7 µg/dL, respectively, indicating deficiency. Selenium averaged 168.10 ± 14.47 µg/L in maternal serum and 197.56 ± 16.74 µg/L in cord blood, with neonatal levels exceeding physiological limits. Vitamin C concentrations were 7.53 ± 0.26 mg/L (maternal) and 7.11 ± 0.50 mg/L (cord), both within normal ranges. Correlation analysis showed a weak maternal-cord zinc relationship (r = 0.11, P = 0.46), a significant positive correlation for selenium (r = 0.48, P = 0.00059), and a slight negative correlation for vitamin C (r = −0.022, P = 0.88). Conclusion: Zinc deficiency in maternal and cord blood highlights the need for routine monitoring and supplementation. Elevated neonatal selenium suggests potential toxicity risks, requiring further research. Adequate vitamin C levels indicate sufficient nutrition, supporting immune function and oxidative stress reduction. These findings emphasize the importance of maternal micronutrient balance for neonatal health.

Item Type:	Article
Subjects:	R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
Divisions:	Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences > School of Medicine
Depositing User:	mrs chioma hannah
Date Deposited:	23 Jun 2025 11:06
Last Modified:	23 Jun 2025 13:22
URI:	http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/4905

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