To Assess the Level of Vit B12, Vit C and Homocysteine in Chronic Smokers in Central India

Background: Smoking is related to an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Cigarette smoking has been related to higher levels of homocysteine in the blood. Both have been associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Smokers also have lower levels of vitamin B12, which affects homocysteine levels by serving as a cofactor or co substrate (folate) for the enzymes that regulate the metabolism of homocysteine.

Materials: This study was a case-control study, conducted in the Department of Biochemistry and medicine at DMMC & SMHRC, Nagpur in collaboration with ABVRH, Sawangi (Meghe). In the present study, the total number of subjects included was 200 having age Group between 30-60. The subjects were divided in two groups. Group 1: 100 subjects chronic smokers and Group 2: 100 subjects non- smokers.

Results: The homocysteine concentration significantly increased in group 1 ( chronic smokers) 18.50±8.40 as compared to group 02( non smokers ) 8.30±5.30 and p value p<0.005.vitamin B12 concentration significantly decreased in group 01 ( chronic smokers) 340.80±124.70 as compared to group 02 (non smokers) 485.45±175.68 and p value p<0.005. vitamin c concentration significantly decreased in group 1 (chronic smokers) 0.46±0.07 as compared to group 02 (non smokers) 1.12±0.15 and p value p<0.005.

Conclusion: On the basis of findings we concluded that the smoking increases Homocysteine levels and lowers the level of Vit B12 and Vit C leading to increase cardiovascular disease risk among chronic smokers.