The Extensive Study of Magnesium Deficiency, 25-(OH) Vitamin D3, Inflammatory Markers, and Parathyroid Hormone in Relation to Bone Mineral Density in Iraqi Osteoporosis Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Backgrounds And Aims: Magnesium is essential for bone development and mineralization and may influence osteoporosis progression. However, its relationship with low bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk is not well understood. This study aimed to identify the primary risk factors and the effect of magnesium deficiency on bone density in osteoporosis patients.

Methods: The study involved 162 adults categorized into normal, osteopenia, and osteoporosis groups, plus 50 healthy individuals. BMD of the lumbar spine (L1-L4) and femur neck, body mass index, and T-scores were assessed via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, while serum magnesium, 25-(OH) Vitamin D3, inflammatory markers, and other clinical tests were measured. The results showed significant variations in BMD, T-scores, magnesium, and vitamin 25(OH)D levels.

Results: Notably, osteoporosis patients exhibited a substantial decline in mean BMD along with an increase in mean T-scores. They also had significantly lower serum levels of magnesium, vitamin 25(OH)D, and calcium, compared to other groups, while parathyroid hormone levels slightly increased. Inflammatory markers were significantly elevated in osteoporosis patients. Magnesium and vitamin 25(OH)D showed an inverse relationship with T-scores and a direct positive correlation with BMD and bone mineral content. Additionally, a negative correlation between magnesium and inflammatory markers was observed. The findings highlighted a strong correlation between magnesium deficiency and osteoporosis, with a more significant odds ratio compared to factors like 25(OH)D, PTH, BMD, T-score, and calcium.

Conclusion: Magnesium deficiency has a more pronounced impact on bone health than vitamin D deficiency. Thus, magnesium deficiency emerges as a major risk factor for osteoporosis progression and a predictor of fracture incidence in patients with osteoporosis or osteopenia.