A study of serum copper levels and its relation to dietary intake among rural pregnant women in Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Background: Copper plays a definitive role in normal function and development of the body. Previous studies have shown that suboptimal copper intake during fetal development contributes to occurrence of birth defects in humans. Copper deficiency is more common in pregnancy especially in developing countries like India. Prevalence studies on copper levels in pregnant women in south Indian population are scanty and needs to be evaluated.Aim: The aim of this study is to assess serum copper levels during pregnancy and its association with dietary intake, socioeconomic status, gestational age and parity. Materials and methods: This cross sectional study included a total of 54 healthy pregnant women in the rural area of chengalpettu district, Tamil Nadu. A proforma was used to collect a detailed obstetric history and their average daily dietary intake in terms of copper was assessed by using a weekly standardized food frequency questionnaire. Serum Copper level was estimated using colorimetric method. Results: Serum copper levels were deficient in 3.7% of the study population with mean serum copper levels of 193.93±79.24 µg/dl in study population. The dietary intake of copper was found to be deficient