BACKGROUND. Aging is associated with the increasing prevalence of both type 2 diabetes mellitus and osteoporosis, especially in the elderly and female population.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS. We conducted a study to evaluate the correlation between vitamin D deficiency, type 2 diabetes (DMT2), and osteoporosis in a group of Italian women aged 40 to 75 years, comparing biochemical-clinical parameters, anthropometric parameters, and results of instrumental investigations, such as the MOC-DEXA examination.
RESULTS. The results show a lower bone mineral density and, consequently, an increased risk of osteoporosis fractures in patients with type 2 diabetes (DMT2). The responsible mechanism is particularly complex and not yet fully clarified. In addition, there is a negative correlation between plasma levels of vitamin D (25(OH)D) and an increase in insulin resistance with an increase in blood glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c); in other words, there is a higher mean vitamin D value in non-diabetic patients than in the population of women with diabetes.
CONCLUSIONS. Vitamin D deficiency plays a key role in the development of insulin resistance as well as in the development of osteoporosis and, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, there is a greater loss of bone matrix integrity and consequently there is a significant increase in the risk of bone fracture. This figure is significant for future preventive and therapeutic clinical choices.
