Background: Selenium is an essential trace element involved in antioxidant defense, inflammatory regulation, and endothelial function. Selenium deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including arterial hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and acute coronary syndromes.

Objective: To assess selenium status in patients with cardiovascular diseases in Uzbekistan and to evaluate its association with clinical and biochemical parameters related to oxidative stress.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted between 2022 and 2024 in cardiology departments in Tashkent. A total of 198 patients with various cardiovascular conditions and 40 healthy controls were enrolled. Serum selenium concentration was measured using a fluorometric method. Oxidative stress parameters and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring were assessed in selected patients.

Results: Mean serum selenium levels in CVD patients were significantly lower than in controls (79.4 ± 13.8 µg/L vs. 92.6 ± 11.2 µg/L, p < 0.01). Selenium deficiency was detected in 81.8% of patients. The lowest selenium levels were observed in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (66.8 ± 10.9 µg/L, p < 0.05). Reduced selenium levels were associated with increased oxidative stress and unfavorable circadian blood pressure profiles.

Conclusion: Selenium deficiency is highly prevalent among patients with cardiovascular diseases in Uzbekistan and is associated with enhanced oxidative stress. Monitoring and correction of selenium status may represent a promising component of comprehensive cardiovascular prevention strategies.

Selenium, cardiovascular diseases, oxidative stress

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