Hypomagnesemia in adults of northern Serbia: prevalence, nutritional risk factors, and associated comorbidities.

Introduction: Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is associated with numerous non-communicable diseases. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of hypomagnesemia in the general adult population of Northern Serbia (NS), and to determine the level of Mg in drinking water.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with 5,122 adults from the general population. Serum level of Mg was determined by spectrophotometry, while the level of Mg in the drinking water was done by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Standard laboratory methods were used to determine individual's blood lipid status and complete blood count.

Results: The prevalence of hypomagnesemia (Mg < 0.75 mmol/L) in the general population was 2.7%, while the prevalence of the subjects with high risk for the Mg deficiency (Mg 0.75-0.85 mmol/L) was 20.1%. The public water supply showed variable values between 17.3-35.3 mg/L. Age, systolic blood pressure, duration of diabetes mellitus, and glycemia increase with the decrease of Mg level. In addition, increased level of Mg was associated with higher red blood cell count and hemoglobin levels.

Conclusions: The prevalence of hypomagnesemia in Northern Serbia is low (2.7%) and level of Mg in drinking water is not satisfactory. Serum level of Mg in the range 0.75-0.85 mmol/L is present in about 1/5 of the population. Glycemia, advanced age, gender, and smoking have a predictive role in hypomagnesemia occurrence. There is a significant correlation between serum level of Mg and lifestyle and dietary habits.