Project Materials

SERUM CALCIUM LEVEL IN GERIATRIC MEN, COMPARATIVE STUDIES

ABSTRACT

Calcium is the most essential mineral in the body. The body need calcium for the proper functioning of neurones and muscles, including the most vital muscle of all, the heart. Calcium is also essential for strong bones and teeth. The body’s hormonal systems carefully regulate the amount of calcium in the bloodstream. Dairy products, certain vegetables (such as broccoli), and fortified foods provide calcium to the body. Calcium can also be gained by taking calcium-containing supplements. The bones hold the majority of the body’s calcium, with only a minor quantity found in the blood (serum). Calcium is kept within a rather tight range of 8.5 to 10.5mg/dl (4.3 to 5.3meq/l or 2.2 to 2.7mmol/l). The estimation of serum calcium levels is laden with potential mistakes. Several sources of contamination could cause misleading rises in serum calcium concentration. There is no need to fast or limit one’s activity before taking the test. Certain medicines/drugs should be avoided prior to the test since they may impact the results. The experiment’s results can be computed since serum calcium changes are significant with age. Those over 50 have lower serum calcium levels than those aged 20 to 30.

Chapter one

INTRODUCTION

Serum calcium levels in geriatric males

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and one of its most essential constituents. It is required by the body to create and repair bones and teeth, stimulate nerves, cause muscles to contract, aid in blood clotting, and function of the heart. Almost 80% of the body’s calcium is stored in bone.

The remainder is found in the bloodstream. Normally, calcium levels in the blood are constantly monitored. When blood calcium levels drop (hypocalcaemia), the bones release calcium to restore normal blood levels.

When blood calcium levels rise (hypercalcemia), the excess calcium is either retained in bones or excreted in urine and stool. The serum calcium level appears to be related to blood pressure and metabolic risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

1.2.0: Calcium levels in the body are determined by:

· Dietary calcium.

· The intestines absorb Calcium and Vitamin D.

· Phosphorus in the body.

· The body produces some hormones, such as parathyroid hormone, calcitonin, and oestrogen.

Vitamin D: These hormones regulate the quantity of calcium in the body. They also regulate the quantity of calcium absorbed from food and the amount excreted in urine and stool.

Phosphorus levels in the blood are strongly linked to calcium levels, and they function in opposite ways: As blood calcium levels rise, phosphate levels fall, and the reverse is also true.

The aim and objective of this research is to:

· Determine serum calcium levels in men over 50 years old. Compare the results with the age group 20 to 30 years.