A comparative study of biochemical variables among obese women with and without osteoporosis

Abstract

Background and aims: Osteoporosis is a global health priority characterized by low bone mineral density. While historically associated with aging, its rising prevalence suggests a complex multifactorial origin. This study aimed to evaluate specific biochemical variables in obese women to determine if increased body mass provides protection against bone loss. The research compared bone metabolism markers across three categories: obese women with osteoporosis, those with osteopenia, and healthy obese controls.

Methods: The study involved 120 obese women (mean BMI: 31.02–33.55), categorized into three groups based on DEXA scan results. Researchers analyzed various biochemical markers, including osteoprotegerin (OPG), aromatase (ARO), progesterone (P4), testosterone (T), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Additionally, serum levels of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and phosphorus (P) were measured alongside their respective ratios.

Results and Conclusions: Significant findings included a sharp decline in OPG levels in the osteoporosis group (p < 0.001). Aromatase and progesterone also showed highly significant variances between healthy controls and those with bone density loss (p<0.001). While T, ALP, and Ca differed between the control and osteoporosis groups, Mg and P levels remained stable across all subjects. The study concludes that osteoporosis is increasingly prevalent and independent of age-related decline alone. Crucially, the data refutes the myth that being overweight or obese offers a protective effect against bone degradation, highlighting the need for vigilant screening in this demographic.