RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LEUKOCYTE COUNTING AND PCR-US WITH THE USUAL DIETARY INTAKE OF VITAMINS WITH ANTIOXIDANT ACTION AMONG ELDERLY PEOPLE

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between leukocyte counts and ultra-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and the usual dietary intake of vitamins with antioxidant action in the elderly. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional epidemiological study with a sample of 174 individuals aged 60 years and over, from different socioeconomic and health conditions, such as obesity, hypertension and diabetes. Results: To verify the correlation among the study variables, the Spearman correlation coefficient was utilized. There was a negative correlation between leukocyte counts and the intake of vitamin E (r = -0.29, p = 0.0316), β -carotene (r = -0.32, p = 0.0189), as well as vitamin A (r = - 0.36, p = 0.0062). On the other hand, there was a correlation between leukocyte counts and the intake of vitamin C as well as between the hs-CRP and the usual intake of these vitamins. Conclusion: Based on the correlations found, the intake of these vitamins would be more justified considering their importance in the adaptability of leukocyte counts. DESCRIPTORS: Adge. Leukocytes. C-reactive protein. Eating