Evaluation vitamin D3 and calcium in osteoporosis patients

Abstract

Osteoporosis and other bone disorders represent major public health concerns, frequently associated with deficiencies in essential nutrients such as vitamin D₃ (25-hydroxyvitamin D) and calcium. This comparative cross-sectional study aimed to analyze the relationship between serum vitamin D₃ and calcium levels and their impact on bone health. The study included 40 participants, stratified into 28 patients with suspected bone disorders (case group) and 12 healthy individuals (control group). The average age of participants was 33 ± 16 years. Data were collected at Al-Shatrah General Hospital, Dhi Qar Governorate, between November 1^st 2023, and December 20^th 2023. Serum vitamin D₃ was measured using the I-Chroma immunoassay and calcium levels by colorimetry. Among the case group, 78.6% had vitamin D₃ deficiency and 60.7% exhibited hypocalcemia, while all controls had normal vitamin D₃ and calcium levels. The overall deficiency rate of vitamin D₃ was 55%, and hypocalcemia was found in 42.5% of participants. Mean vitamin D₃ levels were significantly lower in cases (16.55 ± 7.80 ng/mL) than in controls (32.6 ± 2.10 ng/mL, P < 0.05). Calcium differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05), yet a potential clinical relevance is noted. Vitamin D₃'s broader immunological roles, though not assessed here, underscore the importance of addressing deficiency. Only 3% reported regular supplementation. These findings recommend improved screening, public education, and further studies accounting for gender, BMI, and sunlight exposure.