Impact of Smoking on Hematologic and Biochemical Predictors of Coronary Artery Disease in Iraqi Male Population

Elham Hazeim Abdulkareem ^1*, Thana Ismail Mustafa ², Dhyauldeen Aftan Al Hayani ³

This study showed the significant influence of smoking on key predictors of CAD, emphasizing its role in cardiovascular risk assessment.

Abstract

Background: Smoking is a well-known risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD) and other cardiovascular conditions, including coronary heart disease (CHD). Blood cell components and biomarkers such as white blood cells (WBCs), haemoglobin (Hb), fibrinogen, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), D-dimer, and ferritin have been implicated in the pathogenesis of CAD. This study aimed to identify key predictors of CAD in smokers by assessing these hematologic and biochemical parameters. Methods: This study included male smokers with hypertension, excluding those with diabetes or dyslipidaemia, and compared them to a control group of healthy nonsmokers. Parameters assessed included complete blood count (CBC) and blood-based biomarkers (hs-CRP, D-dimer, fibrinogen, and ferritin). The predictive value of the fibrinogen-to-D-dimer ratio was also analyzed. Statistical analysis was conducted using GraphPad Prism 9.5.0 with a 95% confidence level. Results: Significant differences were observed between smokers and nonsmokers in WBC count, Hb level, and packed cell volume (PCV). Smokers exhibited higher levels of hs-CRP, fibrinogen, D-dimer, and ferritin. However, the fibrinogen-to-D-dimer ratio was not a significant predictor of CAD. Conclusion: The study found that elevated WBC count, Hb level, PCV, and biomarkers (hs-CRP, D-dimer, fibrinogen, ferritin) are strong predictors of CAD in smokers. These findings suggest the potential for developing a predictive panel for CAD risk in smokers, though the study's small sample size is a limitation.

Keywords: Smoking, Coronary Artery Disease, Hematologic Biomarkers, Biochemical Predictors, Inflammation

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