RESUMEN

Background Trace elements like zinc and copper are indispensable for human growth and development, exerting significant influence on a multitude of physiological processes. Acting as pivotal components for transcription factors and catalytic cofactors for enzymes, these elements play essential roles in cellular differentiation and maturation Objective The objective of this study was to study serum zinc and copper levels in mothers and neonates in relation to prematurity and intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Methods This was a cross-sectional study that included 100 mothers who met the inclusion criteria. Maternal history was recorded, and gestational age was estimated using the New Ballard scoring system. Maternal and cord blood samples were taken for zinc and copper analysis. Results The comparison of maternal copper and zinc levels between term and preterm neonates revealed a statistically significant difference with both trace elements found in less concentration in preterm when compared to the term patients (p= 0.03 for Zinc; 0.0001 for copper). We also report a statistically significant difference in maternal and cord blood copper and zinc levels in cases with IUGR compared to normal neonates. Conclusion The findings show that maternal zinc and copper levels are critical for the intrauterine growth of the fetus and for appropriate gestational age.