A new meta-analysis conducted by South Korean researchers has concluded that bone mineral density (BMD) is significantly lower in fibromyalgia patients who are either Caucasian and/or female. The study, “,” was published in the journal Clinical Rheumatology . While the relationship between fibromyalgia and BMD has never been explained, the correlation between the disease and low bone mineral density is likely true. Low BMD is a dangerous condition because it can put patients at risk for osteoporosis. Low bone mineral density may exist in fibromyalgia patients due to the fact that most of these patients are in too much pain to exercise frequently, which is a known risk factor for low BMD levels. Also, fibromyalgia patients often don't get enough exposure to the sun, which leads to low vitamin D levels — another risk factor for low BMD. Other conditions that are common in fibromyalgia patients include irritable bowel syndrome and depression, which have also been associated with low bone mineral density levels. Interestingly, both fibromyalgia and low BMD levels are common among women. Studies that have specifically looked at a potential link between low BMD and fibromyalgia have not reported any significant association. However, this may be due to the fact that the individual studies did not include a sample size large enough to produce a statistically significant result. So, researchers at the Korea University Coll Subscribe or log in to access all post and page content. Click Here to receive the latest FM News via e-mail