Assessment of Selenium and Mercury Levels in Breast Tissue of Malignant and Healthy Female Patients in Pakistan: Implications for Breast Cancer Screening and Treatment

Abstract

Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can cause numerous health issues, including immune and endocrine system disruption, respiratory problems, metabolic issues, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular problems, growth impairment, neurological and learning disabilities, and cancers such as breast cancer. In Pakistan, breast cancer is prevalent, with approximately 1,000 new cases annually, and 40,000 women are affected due to untreated cases. This study aimed to detect essential traces of selenium (Se) and mercury (Hg) in biological samples (scalp hair and blood) from female patients with breast cancer in Pakistan. This study found that patients with different types of breast cancer had lower Se levels in scalp hair and blood samples and higher Hg levels than healthy participants (p < 0.003). The study also found that malignant neoplasms were more common in dense breasts than in non-dense breasts. This study suggests that the balance between carcinogenic and anticarcinogenic effects is critical in determining the severity of breast cancer and that human carcinogenic effects are significant. Hematological markers play a crucial role in determining disease severity, and the results of this study will be beneficial for treating female patients with breast cancer and improving their quality of life.