The association of exposure to cadmium through cigarette smoke with pregnancy-induced hypertension in a selenium deficient population

Oxidative stress has been postulated as major contributor to endothelial dysfunction and pregnancy-induced hypertension. We have examined the association of exposure to cadmium through cigarette smoke with hypertension disorders during pregnancy in the selenium deficient population. Markers of lipid peroxidation and antioxidative defense were measured and correlated with cadmium blood concentration in normotensive and hypertensive pregnant smokers and nonsmokers. We have observed significantly higher blood Cd in hypertensive smokers and significant differences in all other parameters. Se concentrations were lower in smokers, both in normotensive and hypertensive group as well as values of nonenzymatic (Zn, Cu, and glutathione) and enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase) parameters of antioxidative defense. Results of the study indicate that exposure to cadmium through cigarette smoke in pregnant women, living in Se deficient areas is associated with significantly higher cadmium concentrations and lower levels of enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants and that it can be considered as a risk factor for pregnancy-induced hypertension. Selenium supplementation should be considered for recommendation in such condition.