Platelet changes in healthy male smokers

We read with interest the study by Ghahremanfard et al.1 This interesting study observed the changes in thrombocytopoiesis and platelet morphological parameters in healthy male smokers. We would like to take this opportunity to share our scientific views on this wonderful published article. It was not stated clearly what was the rationale behind excluding the subjects who consumed anti-platelet drugs specifically for 10 days prior to blood collection. Few other diseases, such as diabetes and blood related disorders in these subjects could have been taken into account for exclusion. It was mentioned in the results section “no meaningful difference was found in average age between smokers and non-smokers.” We are sure that the exact word should be ‘significant’ rather than ‘meaningful.’ It would be interesting to observe the level of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) protein level in the platelets. Interestingly, it has been seen that MAO-B protein concentration even remained elevated in individuals who had quit smoking.2 The MAO-B level also varies according to gender. An earlier study in women found that 60% of smokers, and 15% of the non-smokers experienced arterial thrombosis.3 It is to be debated if the arterial thrombosis, or any other platelet disorder would be more pronounced in male or even female smokers. In the present study, the idea of focusing mainly only on the healthy male smokers could be added as a limitation of the study. Overall, it is an interesting article for increasing public consciousness. The authors and the editor are truly appreciated for their efforts in publishing such an important article on a public health related issue.