Studies on Serum Magnesium, Phosphorous and Calcium in Cardiovascular Disease Patients Attending Heart Clinic at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUTH), Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

The aim was achieved by estimating and comparing the concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium in individuals with heart disease and those without any history of heart disease. It is well-recognised that certain nutrients influence the onset and course of cardiovascular disorders. These include calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These micronutrients have historically been linked to chronic renal disease or bone health, but they may also raise the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study was carried out to investigate the serum magnesium, phosphorous and calcium in cardiovascular disease patients attending heart clinic at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUTH) Enugu, Nigeria. Blood samples were obtained by venipuncture from forty (40) patients consisting of ten (10) male cardiovascular disease patient (test subject) and ten (10) male non-cardiovascular disease patients (control subject), ten (10) female cardiovascular disease subject (test subject) and ten (10) female non-cardiovascular disease subject (control subject). Blood sample from each patient was analysed for bone minerals (magnesium, phosphorous and calcium) by spectrophotometric method. Serum Ca was significantly lower (p=0.000) in heart disease patients compared to Controls, while serum phosphorus was significantly higher (p=0.034) in heart disease patients compared to Controls. There was no significant difference (p=0.493) in serum Ca levels of heart disease patients compared to controls. Serum Ca was significantly negatively correlated with P in heart Disease Patients (r= -0.721, p=0.000). There was no significant correlation of serum Ca with Mg in heart Disease Patients (r= 0.074, p=0.755). Hyperphosphatemia and hypomagnesemia are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, and this study discusses the necessity of increased magnesium and decreased phosphorous levels in maintaining cardiac health.