Impact of Cigarette Smoking on Lipid Peroxidation and Atherogenic Indices in Asymptomatic Young Adults

Cigarette smoke contains numerous compounds, many of which are oxidants and prooxidants, capable of producing free radicals and enhancing the oxidative stress. It may promote atherogenesis by producing oxygen-derived free radicals that damage lipids. Increased lipid peroxidation play a significant role for causation of various diseases by oxidative damage and functional degeneration of the tissues. So, serum malondialdehyde (MDA), an indicator of lipid peroxidation and various atherogenic indices were measured.

To compare the serum malondialdehyde and atherogenic indices between smokers and non smokers and to establish relationship between lipid peroxidation and intensity of smoking.

The study included 30 apparently healthy nonsmoker male volunteers, 30 light smokers and 30 heavy smokers with their age ranging from 25–35 yrs. Serum malondialdhyde was measured using Thiobarbituric acid assay and serum lipid profile were estimated using autoanalyser. Atherogenic indices namely Castelli's Risk Index l and ll, TG/HDL and atherogenic coefficient were calculated. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 19. Un paired student t test was performed to compare the biochemical parameters between the groups. Pearson correlation analysis was done to establish relationship between two variables.

The serum malondialdehyde level was significantly (p< 0.05) increased in smokers when compared with non-smokers. Serum lipid levels and atherogenic indices were also significantly (p< 0.05) increased in smokers.