Evaluation of serum polymorphonuclear (PMNs) and lipid peroxidation of smokers and non-smokers

Abstract

Introduction: Smoking is considered a worldwide epidemic and, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), about five million people die each year as a result of tobacco-related illnesses. Tobacco, in addition to several harmful effects, is related to the increase of defense cells. Objective: To evaluate the viability of polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) and oxidative damage in the blood of smokers and nonsmokers through the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS). Methodology: We evaluated 22 volunteers (both sexes): 11 smokers and 11 non-smokers. After responding to a questionnaire on tobacco dependence, blood samples were obtained by venipuncture, part of which was destined for analysis under the light microscope to evaluate the viability of PMNs and part for the analysis of TBARS formation. Results: Data showed that 18% have low degree of dependence on nicotine, 27% of smokers have a medium degree of dependency and 18% consider high nicotine addiction. Regarding the viability of the PMNs and the formation of TBARS, no significant difference was observed between the smoking and non-smoking groups, although the smokers group presented a decrease in the percentage of the viability of the PMNs. Conclusion: The data showed that the highest percentage of participants had an average degree of nicotine dependence. The viability of the PMNs and the formation of TBARS did not change between the smoking and non-smoking groups, although the smokers group presented a decrease in the percentage of feasibility of the PMNs.

Keywords: Tobacco. Imune system. Polymorphonuclear cells. TBARS.