Oxidative stress in an aged population with diabetes mellitus and/or hypertension

Mexico City has the highest aging rate in the country, as well as a high prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HAS). All three on their own, are known to increase oxidative stress (OE). With this study, we have described changes in OE in 18 patients without DM or HAS, 12 with DM, 23 with HAS, and 18 with DM and HAS. The EO was measured by the quantification of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and by determination of lipid peroxidation. HAS patients showed increased ROS levels as did men with HAS compared with the respective DM and HAS groups. Also, women of the control group showed higher levels of ROS compared with men. HAS in an aged population turned out to be the most influential factor for oxidative stress increase while DM had no effect whatsoever.