Mineral composition and type of saliva microcrystallization in residents of major industrial regions

BACKGROUND: The negative impact of environmental factors affects human health, leading to an increase in disease rates associated with unfavorable living conditions. Assessing environmental quality remains highly relevant, as each major industrial center has its own regional characteristics. AIM: To compare the cationic and anionic composition and types of saliva microcrystallization in residents of major industrial centers, using Omsk and Krasnoyarsk as examples. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using saliva samples from residents of Omsk (n = 82) and Krasnoyarsk (n = 86), aged 18–22 years. All samples were analyzed for ammonium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium, chlorides, sulfates, fluorides, and phosphates using capillary electrophoresis, and the types of saliva microcrystallization were compared. Statistical analysis was performed using nonparametric methods, including the Mann–Whitney test for two-group comparisons and the Kruskal–Wallis test for comparisons involving three or more groups. RESULTS: Significant regional differences were observed for all parameters except sulfate concentration in saliva. Residents of Krasnoyarsk had higher levels of ammonium, potassium, calcium, and all anions in their saliva compared to those from Omsk, whereas sodium and magnesium concentrations were higher in Omsk residents. In all parameters except calcium, increased concentrations were observed in male subgroups, regardless of region. No differences in saliva microcrystallization patterns were identified between the two cities. CONCLUSION: The element concentrations in saliva differ between residents of Omsk and Krasnoyarsk. When planning studies using saliva as a biological substrate, it is essential to consider regional factors that influence its composition, which are determined by varying geochemical and industrial factors. Therefore, it is necessary to refine the normal reference values for saliva parameters specific to each city.