Zinc deficiency: a predisposing factor for coronary artery disease

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), also called coronary heart disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed /western countries and is emerging as an epidemic in developing countries. The role of micronutrients and trace elements in the pathogenesis of the CAD has been recently reported. Experimental and clinical studies indicate that zinc deficiency may predispose to CAD. Though this deficiency is more common in Third World countries, the dietary zinc intake is still below recommendations among certain population groups in industrialized countries even. The continued discoveries of the unique protective properties of zinc warrant further research in the role of zinc in endothelial cell metabolism and atherosclerosis. But the best way to deal with CAD, of course, is to prevent it and prevention of development and progression of atherosclerosis would play the major role here undoubtedly.