High Prevalence of Probable Sarcopenia in a Representative Sample From Colombia: Implications for Geriatrics in Latin America

Abstract

ObjectivesThe European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2) recently defined the new concept of probable sarcopenia to help improve screening and prevent future sarcopenia. We investigated the prevalence of probable sarcopenia, defined as weak grip strength, in community-dwelling older Colombian adults, and examined the long-term associated conditions. DesignCross-sectional study. SettingUrban and rural Colombian older adults from the “Estudio Nacional de Salud, Bienestar y Envejecimiento (SABE) study”. Participants5237 Colombian older adults aged ≥60 years. MeasurementsProbable sarcopenia was assessed following the cut-off points for weak grip strength recommended by EWGSOP2 guidelines. Odds ratios (ORs) of the relationship between long-term conditions and probable sarcopenia were determined using logistic regression. ResultsThe prevalence of probable sarcopenia defined as weak grip strength was 46.5% [95% confidence interval (CI), 45.1-47.8]. Physical inactivity “proxy” (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.14-1.59); diabetes (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.11-1.56); and arthritis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatism (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.25-1.67) were independently associated with probable sarcopenia. Conclusions and ImplicationsWe found that almost half of all the Colombian older adults in our sample had probable sarcopenia. Individuals with physical inactivity, diabetes, arthritis, or osteoarthritis and rheumatism had a higher prevalence of probable sarcopenia. Probable sarcopenia is clinically highly relevant, and several of the factors associated with this condition are potentially preventable, treatable, and reversible.