A study of serum magnesium level in type 2 diabetes mellitus and its association with glycemic control and its complications

Context: Diabetes is a major public health problem with increasing morbidity due to complications. There have been reports regarding the association of serum magnesium (S. Mg) with diabetic complications but they are few and inconclusive. Aims: The aim was to find the status of S. Mg in patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus (type 2 DM) and study association of S. Mg with glycemic control and diabetic complications. Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional observational study carried out in a tertiary care hospital in rural area. Subjects and Methods: All patients of type 2 DM were included. Detailed history was taken and all were subjected to routine investigations and S. Mg level. Patients were also screened for complications of diabetes. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed for any association between S. Mg levels and diabetic control (hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c]) and also for the correlation with diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy. Results: Mean S. Mg was significantly less in patients having uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c ≥7%) as compared to those with HbA1c Conclusions: Hypomagnesemia is associated with uncontrolled HbA1c and diabetic complications. Routine monitoring and correction of S. Mg levels in type 2 diabetes patients may help in better control of HbA1c and delaying progression to retinopathy and nephropathy.