Khaberni - A recent scientific study has shown that zinc deficiency in dementia patients increases the risk of death and serious health complications.
During the study, scientists analyzed the medical and health data of 1241 dementia patients suffering from low zinc levels, and compared it to the data from the same number of patients who did not have this nutritional deficiency. It was found that the mortality rate over one year in the group with zinc deficiency was higher compared to the other group, with rates of 10.1% versus 6.8%, indicating a 54% increased risk of death for this group.
The results also showed that zinc deficiency in dementia patients was associated with an increased risk of sepsis, admission to intensive care units, urinary tract infections, and elevated levels of C-reactive protein, which is an indicator of inflammation. With severe deficiency of this element, the association became stronger: the risk of death increased by 85%, and the risk of sepsis nearly tripled.
The researchers explained that zinc plays a vital role in supporting immunity, fighting infections, and protecting against oxidative stress. Although their study was observational and does not prove a direct causal relationship between this deficiency and an increased risk of death, they emphasized that zinc levels could be an important indicator of the health status of dementia patients and help identify those at higher risk.
