British News Agency

Dr. Burak Uzel, an Internal Medicine Specialist at Medicana Ataköy Hospital and Virasoft’s CSO, noted that zinc deficiency is among the key factors behind the increase in infections, particularly in winter.

Uzel stated that the low zinc content in Türkiye’s soils contributes to the widespread prevalence of zinc deficiency in the country, which can lead to many health problems, foremost affecting the immune system. He added that zinc deficiency is seen in roughly 20% to 30% of the population nationwide, and that this rate may vary depending on regional and socioeconomic conditions.

Referring to the most common symptoms of zinc deficiency, Uzel said recurrent infections, persistent weakness and fatigue, hair loss, and slow healing of skin wounds stand out.

Highlighting risk groups, Uzel emphasized that elderly individuals and people who have undergone bariatric surgery (such as stomach reduction) should be more cautious, noting that zinc deficiency may be more pronounced in these groups due to malabsorption and nutritional deficiencies.

Uzel said that to determine zinc levels, a blood zinc test along with checking certain blood enzymes such as alkaline phosphatase is sufficient, and stressed that supplementation must be used under specialist supervision. He warned that uninformed zinc supplementation could cause decreases in other important trace elements in the body.

In addition to serving as an Internal Medicine Specialist at Medicana Ataköy Hospital, Dr. Burak Uzel continues his work as Virasoft’s Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and as the medical advisor for the KİB application. He is reported to specialize in AI-assisted medicine, preventive health, and holistic well-being.