Probable Sarcopenia Research Articles

Sarcopenia and associated factors among older adults at high risk of dementia

Abstract Background Sarcopenia and dementia share pathophysiological pathways and risk factors, including advanced age, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, smoking and diabetes. Older adults at high risk of dementia may face increased susceptibility to sarcopenia, which can also exacerbate cognitive decline. Thus, this study aims to estimate the frequency of sarcopenia and its associated factors within this vulnerable population. Methods This cross-sectional analysis includes data from a subset of older adults (≥65 years of age) enrolled in the MIND-Matosinhos randomized controlled trial, a community-based cognitive decline prevention program. Per the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People, probable sarcopenia is defined as low muscle strength (handgrip strength <16 kg for women and <27 kg for men). Sociodemographic, lifestyle and health-related data were collected via structured questionnaires. To assess factors associated with sarcopenia, odds ratios (OR) and respective confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated using logistic regression. Results A total of 157 participants (58.6% female), with a median age of 73 years (range: 65 to 85 years), were included. The overall prevalence of sarcopenia was 21.7% (n = 34). After adjusting for sex, age and education, inadequate adherence to Mediterranean Diet (MD) (OR = 10.90; 95% CI:1.41-84.52), current smoking status (OR = 5.06; 95% CI:1.06-24.18) and poorer self-perceived health (OR = 2.74; 95% CI:1.03-7.28) were positively associated with sarcopenia. No other statistically significant associations were found. Conclusions The observed sarcopenia frequency underscores the need for enhanced screening and management of this condition in community settings and among those at dementia risk. Inadequate adherence to MD, smoking and poor self-perceived health, seem to be associated with sarcopenia in older adults at high risk of dementia. Sarcopenia prevention should involve a holistic approach to promoting a healthy lifestyle. Key messages • Sarcopenia was observed in 21.7% of older adults at high risk of dementia, indicating a significant burden on this vulnerable population. • Inadequate adherence to the Mediterranean diet, smoking and poor self-perceived health were associated with sarcopenia.

Frailty or sarcopenia: which is a better indicator of mortality risk in older adults?

BackgroundDespite the different conditions, frailty and sarcopenia overlap regarding their common link: the assessment of walking speed and muscle strength. This study aimed to compare the frailty phenotype to the...

The 30-day readmission rate of patients with an overlap of probable sarcopenia and malnutrition undergoing major oncological surgery.

Overlapping sarcopenia and malnutrition may increase the risk of readmission in surgical oncology. Overlapping probable sarcopenia/malnutrition was found in 4.6% of 238 patients and the 30-day unplanned readmission rate was 9.0%. In multivariate analysis, the overlap of probable sarcopenia and malnutrition was a significant predictor for the 30-day unplanned readmission (OR= 8.10, 95%CI= 1.20-0.55; p=0.032). ■ Probable sarcopenia plus malnutrition was significantly associated with unplanned readmission. ■ Overlap of probable sarcopenia and malnutrition was an independent risk factor for readmission. ■ Certification of whether the patient is malnourished and/or sarcopenic preoperatively is necessary. ■ SARC-F and subjective global assessment can effectively and easily assess sarcopenia and malnutrition at admission. To assess the 30-day unplanned readmission rate and its association with overlapping probable sarcopenia and malnutrition after major oncological surgery. A prospective bicentric observational cohort study performed with adult oncological patients undergoing major surgery. The primary outcome was unplanned readmission within 30 days after discharge and the association with probable sarcopenia and malnutrition. Nutritional status and probable sarcopenia were assessed just prior to surgery. Patients classified using subjective global assessment, as B and C were malnourished. Probable sarcopenia was defined using SARC-F (strength, assistance with walking, rise from a chair, climb stairs, falls) questionnaire ≥4 points and low HGS (handgrip strength) <27kg for males and <16kg for females. Two hundred and thirty-eight patients (51.7% female) with a median age of 60 years were included. The 30-day readmission rate was 9.0% (n=20). Univariate analysis showed an association of malnutrition (odds ratio (OR) = 4.84; p=0.024) and probable sarcopenia (OR = 4.94; p=0.049) with 30-day readmission. Furthermore, when both conditions were present, the patient was almost nine times more likely to be readmitted (OR = 8.9; p=0.017). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that overlapping probable sarcopenia and malnutrition was an independent predictor of 30-day unplanned readmission (OR = 8.10, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) 1.20-0.55; p=0.032). The 30-day unplanned readmission rate was 9.0%, and the overlap of probable sarcopenia and malnutrition is an independent predictor for the 30-day unplanned readmission after major oncologic surgery.

Association between bone microarchitecture and sarcopenia in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) increases the risk of sarcopenia, which independently contributes to bone fragility. We aimed to explore the association between sarcopenia/sarcopenic obesity and bone quality using second-generation high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) in T2D. We analyzed the baseline participant characteristics of an ongoing randomized clinical pilot trial (CTRI/2022/02/039978). Postmenopausal women (≥ 50years) with T2D and high risk of fragility fractures were included. Areal BMD (aBMD), trabecular bone score (TBS), and body composition were measured using DXA. Bone microarchitecture was assessed at distal radius/distal tibia using HR-pQCT. Muscle strength was estimated using dominant handgrip strength (HGS). Sarcopenia was defined as low HGS (< 18.0kg) and low appendicular skeletal muscle index (ASMI) (< 4.61kg/m2). Probable sarcopenia was defined as low HGS with normal ASMI. Sarcopenic obesity was classified as co-existence of sarcopenia and obesity (BMI ≥ 25.0kg/m2). We recruited 129 postmenopausal women (mean age 64.2 ± 6.7years). Participants were categorized into four mutually exclusive groups: group A (normal HGS and ASMI, n = 17), group B (probable sarcopenia, n = 77), group C (non-obese sarcopenia, n = 18), and group D (obesesarcopenia, n = 18). The four groups did not differ significantly with regard to baseline characteristics, fracture prevalence, HbA1c, aBMD, and TBS. However, HR-pQCT-derived volumetric BMD and cortical/trabecular microarchitecture were significantly poorer in group C/group D than in group A/group B. Bone quality rather than bone density (quantity) is adversely affected in T2D postmenopausal women with sarcopenia/sarcopenic obesity, which could increase the fracture risk in this patient sub-population.

Association between probable sarcopenia and dementia risk: a prospective cohort study with mediation analysis

The role of alcohol consumption as a mediator in the risk between sarcopenia and dementia remains inadequately studied. There is currently limited research on whether the association between sarcopenia and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is influenced by genetic susceptibility. Our study incorporated a total of 483,637 baseline non-dementia participants, who were classified into groups of individuals with no sarcopenia and those with probable sarcopenia based on the definition. We employed Cox proportional hazards models to evaluate the association between probable sarcopenia and the risk of all cause dementia (ACD), AD, and vascular dementia (VD). We conducted mediation analysis to explore the role of alcohol consumption in the association between probable sarcopenia and the risk of ACD, AD, and VD. During the median follow-up period of 13.6 years, we documented 9000 new cases of ACD (including 4061 AD and 2025 VD). Fully adjusted multivariate model revealed a significant correlation between probable sarcopenia and elevated risk for ACD (HR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.46–1.62, p < 0.001), AD (HR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.21–1.43, p < 0.001), and VD (HR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.52–1.89, p < 0.001). Mediation analysis elucidates that alcohol consumption explained 12.8%, 15.2%, and 11.1% of the associations of probable sarcopenia with the risk of ACD, AD, and VD, respectively. An interactive relationship prevails between probable sarcopenia and genetic factors (p for interaction <0.001), and regardless of the degree of genetic risk, probable sarcopenia correlates with an elevated AD risk. Our study reveals a significant association between probable sarcopenia and an increased risk of dementia, with alcohol consumption playing a mediating role in this association. There is an interaction between probable sarcopenia and genetic susceptibility related to the risk of AD.

Comparative analysis of Sarcopenia in hospitalized elderly: exploring the impact of liver cirrhosis.

The progressive aging of the population has led to a rise in geriatric pathologies, with sarcopenia, characterized by muscle mass and function loss, becoming a crucial prognostic indicator. This study investigates sarcopenia in elderly hospitalized patients with advanced chronic liver disease (cirrhotic) and non-liver disease patients, comparing their prevalence and exploring correlations with anthropometric and biochemical factors. The cohort of 115 patients, including 50 cirrhotic and 65 non-cirrhotic individuals, exhibited significant comorbidities and a mean age of 78.4years. Cirrhotic patients presented distinct laboratory parameters indicating liver damage. Applying European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People criteria, probable sarcopenia prevalence was similar in cirrhotic (62%) and non-cirrhotic (63%) patients. Stratifying probable sarcopenia into confirmed sarcopenia and dynapenia revealed no significant differences between populations. Correlation analyses demonstrated positive associations between Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass (ASM) and anthropometric parameters, malnutrition risk, and grip strength. In cirrhotic patients, muscle mass inversely correlated with liver damage. Odds ratio analysis highlighted the Mini Nutritional Assesment's (MNA) significant predictive capability for sarcopenia. ROC curve analysis affirmed MNA and biochemical markers' combined use, such as transferrin, albumin, total cholesterol, lymphocyte count and C-reactive protein as a strong predictor. Despite limitations, such as a small sample size, this study underscores the significance of thorough sarcopenia screening in elderly hospitalized patients, especially those with cirrhosis. Indeed, individuals with end-stage liver disease are particularly susceptible to sarcopenia. A more personalized approach utilizing tools like MNA and biochemical markers could prove beneficial. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and inform clinical interventions.

Could uric acid/HDL and CRP/albumin ratio predict probable sarcopenia in older adults with weight loss?

Could uric acid/HDL and CRP/albumin ratio predict probable sarcopenia in older adults with weight loss?

Loneliness is not only a social challenge but also an independent factor related to probable sarcopenia: Evidence from survey of health, ageing, and retirement in Europe

Loneliness is not only a social challenge but also an independent factor related to probable sarcopenia: Evidence from survey of health, ageing, and retirement in Europe

The Prevalence of Sarcopenia and its Impact on Function In Older Adults In a Rehabilitation Unit

Abstract Background Sarcopenia is the leading cause of declining physical functioning and is a significant component of frailty, sharing similar characteristics. It is prevalent among older adults undergoing rehabilitation and is a negative predictor of functional recovery. Methods A retrospective cohort study was undertaken in a Rehabilitation Unit from January to March 2024. Variables included age, gender, mBarthel Index (mBI), Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), hand grip strength and Timed Up and Go (TUG). The European Working Group on Sarcopenia for Older People criteria was utilised to interpret hand grip strength and TUG scores. Results Sixty-four patients, 33 (52%) male and 31 (48%) female were included. The mean age was 78 years (SD = 8.13). Fifty-five (86%) had their grip strength assessed, of which 20 (36%) had probable sarcopenia. Nineteen patients (95%) with probable sarcopenia had a TUG completed with a mean of 59.88 (SD = 28.86) seconds. In the non-sarcopenia group, 33 (94%) had a TUG assessment with a mean of 53.21 (SD = 39.82) seconds. The median CFS was 6 (IQR: 6, 6.5) in the probable sarcopenia group and also 6 (IQR: 5, 7) in the non-sarcopenia group. The median mBI of those with probable sarcopenia was 10 (IQR: 7, 14) compared to 12 (IQR: 8, 14) in the non-sarcopenia group. The probable sarcopenia group was significantly older (mean: 81.7, SD = 7.92) than the non-sarcopenia group (mean: 75.8, SD = 8.05), (P = 0.011). There was no significant difference in the median length of stay (LOS) between the probable sarcopenia group: 29 days (IQR: 24.5, 42.5), and the non-sarcopenia group: 28 days (IQR: 18, 49), (P = 0.51). There was no difference in rate of home discharge between the probable sarcopenia group (80%) and the non-sarcopenia group (82.8%), (P = 1.00). Conclusion Sarcopenia is often overlooked in clinical practice, however, it is reversible with multi-component targeted interventions such as nutritional care and resistance training.

Malnutrition Risk Screening and Dietitian Intervention within an Integrated Care Team for Older Persons

Abstract Background Malnutrition in older adults increases the risk of frailty. Nutritional interventions can improve frailty. A Senior Dietitian joined our Integrated Care for Older Persons Community Specialist Team (ICPOP-CST) in 2022. Our Complete Geriatric Assessment (CGA) form was redesigned in early 2023 which included the Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST). We commenced measuring handgrip strength (HGS) in late 2023. We measured the prevalence of malnutrition risk among our patients, audited MST use and explored dietetic service provision. Methods Data from the first 101 patients with a completed (new) CGA form were obtained from the service’s electronic patient database. Patients with a MST score of 0 or 1 were considered to be at low risk of malnutrition and those with a MST score of 2 or more were considered to be at risk of malnutrition. Results The mean age was 84.8±5.3 years and 65% were female. Malnutrition risk was identified in 39 (38.6%) patients. The MST was completed for 96 (95%) patients and completed correctly in 67 (69.8%). The total score was not summed in 26 out of 29 incorrectly completed screening tools (89.7%). Half (51, 50.5%) of the group of older adults received dietetic assessment and intervention. High protein, high calorie advice was provided for 38 (74.5%) of those seen by the ICPOP dietitian and for 29 (93.5 %) of those at risk of malnutrition. Onward referral to primary care dietitians was made for 14 (27.5%) of those seen by the ICPOP dietitian. HGS measurement was performed in 20 patients - 15 (75.0%) were identified to have probable sarcopenia – 11 (73.3%) of these were at risk of malnutrition. All received dietetic intervention in relation to protein and sarcopenia. Conclusion Malnutrition risk and probable sarcopenia are common among older adults referred to our ICPOP-CST team. The MST screening tool is practical and identifies those requiring dietetic intervention.

Evaluation of a Nutrition and Exercise Group Intervention for Older Adults with Frailty and Probable Sarcopenia

Abstract Background The prevalence of probable sarcopenia in frail older adults attending a Community Specialist Team (CST) is 52%. Resistance exercise and optimising nutrition are recommended interventions. The aim of this study was to evaluate a nutrition and exercise group for frail older adults with probable sarcopenia. Methods Adults aged ≥65 years, with probable sarcopenia identified through Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) by a CST over 18 months were included. At CGA (baseline), sarcopenia infographics and 2 attendances at Dietetic and Physiotherapy group were offered. Group intervention comprised nutrition and exercise information and individualised goal setting. Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) score, grip strength and 5 Times Sit-to-Stand (5TSS) were measured. Participants' needs and perceived changes in knowledge were evaluated using open questions and Likert Scales. Data was analysed using thematic analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics. Results Intervention was offered to 82 people. Twenty-nine (35%) attended an initial group (18 women, 11 men), with mean age 80.7 years (SD=7). Nine (30%) attended the second group. Participants were significantly less frail (median CFS 4, IQR 4, 6) than non-participants (median CFS 6, IQR 5, 7) (p= 0.002). Male grip strength improved significantly from baseline (mean 22kg, SD=4.21) to first group (mean 27.8kg, SD=4.36) (p=0.007) and to second group (mean 29kg, SD=4.21) (p=0.012). Female grip strength increased non-significantly from baseline (mean 12.6kg, SD=3.38) to first group (mean 14.5kg, SD=5.85), (p=0.127) and to second group (mean 14.83kg, SD=4.21) (p=0.890). Participant’s 5TSS did not change significantly (mean 19.75 sec, SD=6.38 to mean 20.78 sec, SD=7.73) (p=0.782). Nutrition and exercise knowledge improved significantly (p=0.004, p=0.003 respectively). Access to clear information was an identified theme. Conclusion Educational resources and tailored plans within group interventions can improve grip strength and knowledge in older adults living with very mild frailty. Further research is required to design an accessible intervention for more frail cohorts.

Chronic Kidney Disease and Frailty: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study in Older Adults

Abstract Background Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and frailty are prevalent conditions among older adults, contributing to increased healthcare utilisation and adverse outcomes. The aim of this study was to examine CKD prevalence and associated factors in older adults attending a Community Specialist Team (CST) for older persons for Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA). Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted of all adults aged ≥65 years who had a CGA from October 2023 to March 2024. Variables recorded on an Excel spreadsheet included age, gender, Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) score, Modified Barthel Index (mBI), presence of probable sarcopenia, Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST) and Dementia Screening Interview (AD8) outcomes. CKD was defined as estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) &amp;lt;60ml/min/1.73m2. The presence of frailty was defined as CFS ≥4. Functional impairment was defined by mBI&amp;lt;15 and MST ≥2 defined malnutrition risk. Regression analysis was used to identify associations. Results Ninety-one patients, 59 (64.8%) female and 32 (35.2%) male, with a mean age of 81.83 (SD=7.19) years were included. The prevalence of frailty was 90% (n=82) and of CKD was 53.8% (n=49). Age was a significant predictor of CKD and with each additional year, the odds of having CKD increased by 10% (p=0.004). Twelve (24.5%) of the CKD group had MST ≥2 compared with 17 (40.5%) without CKD (p=0.120). The odds of having probable sarcopenia was non-significantly higher (OR=1.09, p=0.8444) in CKD compared to without CKD. The odds of a positive AD8 was also non-significantly higher (OR=1.24, p=0.605) in CKD compared with no CKD. There was no difference in prevalence of functional impairment between the 2 groups (p=0.466). Conclusion CKD is common chronic condition in frail older persons referred to a CST. It is frequently unrecognised. Identification of CKD through CGA should facilitate an integrated interdisciplinary approach to care which may contribute to better overall health and quality of life.

Muscle Makers: Evaluating a 10-Week Strength and Nutrition Programme's Impact on Sarcopenia

Abstract Background Sarcopenia is a progressive skeletal muscle disorder characterized by loss of muscle mass and strength, leading to adverse outcomes like physical disability, poor quality of life, and death. The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) identifies sarcopenia using criteria including low muscle strength, quantity, quality, and performance. This highlights the importance of early detection and intervention strategies, such as the physiotherapy-led Muscle Makers programme —a 10-week outpatient Progressive Resistance Training (PRT) program with fortnightly Clinical Nutrition input. This data collection aimed to evaluate the programme's effectiveness over a 6-month period. Methods Data was collected on all participants who attended Muscle Makers (one 1-hour session/week) between September 2023 and February 2024. Analysis included participants with both pre- and post-10-week programme outcome measures completed. Data was collected and analysed using MS Excel. Outcome Measures (OCMsused: Timed Up and Go (TUG) and 5-time sit to stand (5TST).Inclusion: Participants with both pre- and post-OCMscompletedExclusion: Participants without pre/post OCMsNon-normally distributed data was log-transformed prior to statistical testing.Results: Number of participants fitting inclusion criteria: 44 (Male: 20, Female: 24)Average age: 80.6 yearsAverage sarcopenia score (SARC F): 4.04 (probable sarcopenia)Average number of falls in the past 12 months: 1.56Average number of classes attended: 8.12 Data Results Conclusion The participants in the Muscle Makers programme achieved significant improvements in both the 5TST and TUG tests, demonstrating enhanced lower body strength, balance, and overall functional mobility. These improvements suggest that the 10-week strength and nutrition intervention effectively mitigates the effects of sarcopenia, highlighting the potential of targeted exercise and nutritional strategies in managing and potentially reversing the progression of this condition.

Detection of Sarcopenia in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults Using the SARC‐F Questionnaire: Findings From the Southampton Longitudinal Study of Ageing (SaLSA)

ABSTRACTAimsSarcopenia is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. The SARC‐F self‐rated questionnaire is a simple tool that can be rapidly implemented by clinicians to identify individuals with probable sarcopenia who may require further in‐depth assessment. A score ≥ 4 is predictive of sarcopenia and poorer outcomes. We sought to identify the prevalence and demographic correlates of probable sarcopenia in a newly formed cohort of community‐dwelling older adults.MethodsA cross‐sectional analysis of 480 participants (219 men and 261 women) identified from primary care in whom a questionnaire ascertaining demographic, lifestyle factors, comorbidities, nutrition risk and SARC‐F score was completed between 2021 and 2022. Participant characteristics in relation to probable sarcopenia were examined using sex‐stratified logistic regression. Age was included as a covariate.ResultsThe median (lower quartile, upper quartile) age was 79.8 (76.9, 83.5) years. 12.8% (28) of men and 23% (60) of women had probable sarcopenia. Older age was associated with probable sarcopenia in both sexes (odds ratio [95% CI]: men 1.10 [1.02, 1.19], p = 0.01; women 1.08 [1.02, 1.14], p = 0.01) as was higher malnutrition risk score (men: 1.30 [1.12, 1.51], p = 0.001; women: 1.32 [1.17, 1.50], p &lt; 0.001 per unit increase). Among men, being married or in a civil partnership or cohabiting was protective against probable sarcopenia (0.39 [0.17, 0.89], p = 0.03) as was reporting drinking any alcohol (0.34 [0.13, 0.92], p = 0.03), whereas in women generally similar relationships were seen though these were weaker. Higher BMI (1.14 (1.07, 1.22), p &lt; 0.001 per unit increase) and more comorbidities (1.61 [1.34, 1.94], p &lt; 0.001 per extra medical condition) were also associated with probable sarcopenia in women.ConclusionsProbable sarcopenia (SARC‐F score ≥ 4) was common in older adults living in their own homes. In addition to advancing age and malnutrition, socio‐demographic factors were also important. Patients with a higher SARC‐F and who are living with associated risk factors should be prioritised for further in‐depth assessment for sarcopenia to allow the planning and implementation of interventions to mitigate potential adverse consequences.

Interactions between muscle volume and body mass index on brain structure in the UK Biobank.

Low skeletal muscle volume may increase dementia risk through mechanisms affecting brain structure. However, it is unclear whether this relationship exists outside of sarcopenia and/or varies by other factors. We aimed to study the interplay between skeletal muscle volume and factors, such as age, sex, and body mass index (BMI), in explaining brain structure at midlife in a cohort without sarcopenia. We used abdominal and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from a population-based cohort enrolled in the UK Biobank. The following measures were derived: thigh fat-free muscle volume (FFMV), total brain volume (TBV), gray matter volume (GMV), white matter volume (WMV), total hippocampal volume (THV), and white matter hyperintensity volume (WMHV). Participants below sex-based grip strength thresholds suggesting probable sarcopenia were excluded. Linear regression analysis was used to study the interaction or mediation effects of age, sex, and BMI on the associations between FFMV and brain volumes. Data were available for 20,353 participants (median age 64 years, 53% female). We found interactions between thigh FFMV, BMI, and age (all p < 0.05). Greater thigh FFMV was associated with better brain volumes in those aged <64 years with normal (TBV: β = 2.0 ml/L, p = 0.004; GMV: β = 0.8 ml/L, p = 0.04; WMV: β = 1.1 ml/L, p = 0.006; WMHV: β = -0.2 ml/L, p = 3.7 × 10-5) or low BMI (TBV: β = 21.2 ml/L, p = 0.003; WMV: β = 13.3 ml/L, p = 0.002, WMHV: β = -1.1 ml/L, p = 0.04). Greater thigh muscle volume correlates with better brain volumes at midlife in people without sarcopenia, but this relationship weakens with greater age and BMI. Further study is required to investigate the underlying mechanisms to understand which components of body composition are potentially modifiable risk factors for dementia.

Osteosarcopenia in Finland: prevalence and associated factors

SummaryThis cross-sectional study investigated osteosarcopenia prevalence and its correlates among 2142 adults aged 55 and older in Finland. Findings show 3.9% had osteosarcopenia, while 13.8% and 11.1% had probable sarcopenia only or osteoporosis only, respectively. Osteosarcopenia was associated with low BMI, impaired mobility, ADL limitations and depression. Sarcopenia appeared to drive these associations more than osteoporosis. Osteosarcopenia may be a risk factor for functional decline, hospitalization, and institutionalization, warranting further research.PurposeOsteosarcopenia is a disorder consisting of concurrent osteoporosis and sarcopenia. This cross-sectional study using nationally representative data from Finland in 2000 aimed to determine the prevalence of osteosarcopenia in Finland. In addition, associations of sociodemographic, lifestyle, anthropometric, physical and mental function indicators, chronic conditions and various biomarkers with osteosarcopenia were examined.MethodsThe study included 2142 subjects aged 55 and over (mean age 68.0 years, SD 9.0). Probable sarcopenia was defined as grip strength < 27 kg for men and < 16 kg for women. Osteoporosis was defined as either ultrasound-based bone density measurement of T < -2.5, or self-reported, pre-existing diagnosis of osteoporosis. Participants were categorized into 4 groups: no sarcopenia and no osteoporosis, probable sarcopenia only, osteoporosis only, and osteosarcopenia. Information on sociodemographic, lifestyle, anthropometric, physical and mental function indicators, chronic conditions and various biomarkers were collected via structured interview, questionnaires, clinical examination, and blood and urine samples.ResultsThe prevalence of probable sarcopenia, osteoporosis and osteosarcopenia was 13.8%, 11.1%, and 3.9%, respectively. Osteosarcopenia was associated with low BMI, slow gait speed, impaired mobility, impaired ability in the activities of daily living and depression. Of the two components, probable sarcopenia appeared to contribute to these associations more than osteoporosis.ConclusionAccording to representative population-based study, about every fifth person with probable sarcopenia also has osteoporosis. Mobility and ADL limitations were more common among people with osteosarcopenia than those with osteoporosis or probable sarcopenia alone. Future studies are needed to examine osteosarcopenia as an independent risk factor for functional decline, hospitalization, and institutionalization.

Sarcopenia, low muscle strength, cognitive functions, and quality of life in parkinsonian syndromes

ObjectivesParkinsonian syndromes are disabling neurodegenerative diseases resulting in reduced muscle function/performance and sarcopenia, but clinical manifestations could be systemic, including deterioration of cognitive function. As studies have reported an association between muscle dysfunction and cognitive decline yet no information on these syndromes is available, we investigated the relationship between sarcopenia, its components, and cognitive function, fatigue, and quality of life (QoL). MethodsConsecutive patients affected by parkinsonian syndromes were assessed for the presence of sarcopenia using the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People-2 algorithm: low strength (handgrip strength: <27 kg [men]; <16 kg [women]) and low appendicular skeletal muscle index by impedance (<7.0 kg/m2 [men]; <6.0 kg/m2 [women]). Cognitive function was evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the Mini Mental State Examination and the Frontal Assessment Battery. Fatigue and QoL were assessed using the 16-item Parkinson's Disease Fatigue Scale and the 39-item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire, respectively. ResultsIn total, 314 patients were included: 198 presented with low strength (63.0% probable sarcopenia); 68 (21.7%) of these were diagnosed with sarcopenia. After adjusting for multiple confounders, we observed a significant effect (poorer score) of both low strength only and sarcopenia on Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Mini Mental State Examination, and QoL. Only reduced muscle strength had a relevant impact on the outcomes considered. ConclusionsSarcopenia is associated with worse cognitive functions and QoL in patients with parkinsonian syndromes, with muscle dysfunction playing a major role. The prognostic impact of sarcopenia and its components should be addressed in prospective studies.

Prevalence and factors associated with probable sarcopenia in southern Brazil: a population-based study.

There are few studies on probable sarcopenia in rural areas. This study aims to assess prevalence of probable sarcopenia and its associated factors in older adults living in the rural area of a municipality in southern Brazil. This cross-sectional study assessed data from the second wave of the EpiRural Cohort Study. Structured questionnaires, handgrip strength, gait speed, and anthropometric measurements were collected from 651 older adults. The criteria from the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 were used in this study. Chi-square test and logistic regression with robust variance were performed. Prevalence of probable sarcopenia was 19.2% (95% confidence interval (CI): 16.3-25.2%). Male sex (prevalence ratio (PR) 1.61; 95%CI 1.17-2.21), age &ge;80 years (PR 4.15; 95%CI 2.65-6.50), underweight (PR 1.90; 95%CI 1.23-2.93), diabetes mellitus (PR 1.80; 95%CI 1.20-2.73), and hospitalization in the past year (PR 2.00; 95%CI 1.36-2.91) were significantly associated with probable sarcopenia. One in five rural older adults have probable sarcopenia. Older adults living in rural areas need frequent measurements of muscle strength, and greater investments should be made to minimize the physical disability caused by sarcopenia among this population.

Measuring calf circumference in frail hospitalized older adults and prediction of in-hospital complications and post-discharge mortality.

Sarcopenia, characterized by muscle mass, strength, and performance decline, significantly impacts outcomes in older adults. This study aims to assess the predictive value of calf circumference (CC), in conjunction with SARC-F and hand grip, concerning in-hospital complications and post-discharge mortality among hospitalized frail older adults. A cohort of 158 hospitalized patients aged over 65 years underwent Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment and sarcopenia screening, including CC measurement. Multivariable regression analyses, adjusted for confounders, were conducted to assess predictive associations. The study cohort, comprising 53% males with a median age of 86 years, exhibited significant sarcopenia prevalence based on SARC-F (85% indicating sarcopenia), hand grip strength (probable sarcopenia in 77% of males and 72% of females), and CC (sarcopenia in 83%). Multivariate analysis, adjusting for age, sex, Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), and Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF), demonstrated associations of CC and SARC-F with in-hospital complications, while CC also showed a significant association with reduced risks of in-hospital mortality (OR 0.441, 95% CI 0.257 to 0.754, p = 0.003) and 90-day mortality (OR 0.714, 95% CI 0.516 to 0.988, p = 0.043). This study provides insights into the predictive accuracy of sarcopenia screening tools on mortality in real-world hospitalized older adults with frailty. Notably, CC emerges as a robust predictor of mortality outcomes. Further research is warranted to validate and elucidate the respective contributions of CC and frailty to mortality in vulnerable populations.

Sarcopenia and Associated Factors in Adults Aged 40 and Above: A Study Conducted in Primary Healthcare.

Sarcopenia, characterized by progressive skeletal muscle loss, has emerged as a significant public health concern, with a global prevalence of 10-27%. While traditionally studied in geriatric populations, recent evidence indicates its impact on individuals aged 40 and above, with early manifestations of muscle decline. Primary care settings play a pivotal role in the early identification and management of sarcopenia, facilitating timely diagnosis and intervention. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of sarcopenia and its associated factors among individuals aged 40 and above attending a family medicine outpatient clinic. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a family medicine outpatient clinic, including participants aged 40 and above. Participants underwent handgrip strength measurements, calf circumference measurements, and a 4-m walking test. Based on the criteria of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EGSWOP2), individuals with sarcopenia and those at risk of sarcopenia were identified. The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) was used to assess nutritional status. Sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, and laboratory values were recorded. A comparison was made between individuals with normal muscle strength and those at risk of sarcopenia. Among 213 individuals, 33 (15.4%) were at risk of sarcopenia (probable sarcopenia), and 12 (5.6%) were diagnosed with sarcopenia. There was a negative correlation observed between age and muscle strength (r=-0,339, p<0,001), and positive correlation was found between muscle strength and MNA score (r=0.301, p<0.001). Individuals with higher education and income levels exhibited higher muscle strength. Participants at risk of sarcopenia had higher prevalence rates of comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus (DM), chronic kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease (p=0.20, p<0.01, p=0.015, respectively). Our study highlights the prevalence and associated factors of sarcopenia in individuals aged 40 and above emphasizing the need for screening and intervention strategies in primary care settings. The study findings support the role of primary care in addressing sarcopenia and improving patient outcomes.