Sarcopenia in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Endocrinology
• Metabolic diseases

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with various complications.
• Sarcopenia, characterized by low muscle mass and strength, is a growing concern in aging populations.
• The prevalence and risk factors of sarcopenia in T2DM patients require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the prevalence of low muscle mass and sarcopenia in T2DM patients versus controls.
• To examine the association between sarcopenia and chronic diabetes complications.

Main Methods:

• Recruited men and women aged 50+ with T2DM and matched controls.
• Assessed total body composition and handgrip strength (HGS).
• Evaluated physical performance using gait speed (GS) and diagnosed sarcopenia using Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) criteria.

Main Results:

• T2DM patients exhibited lower HGS and a higher prevalence of sarcopenia (12.9%) compared to controls (5.4%).
• Albuminuria increased the odds of sarcopenia (OR 2.84) and osteoporosis (OR 3.38).
• Increased total body fat percentage (%TF) was associated with higher odds of sarcopenia in both men and women.

Conclusions:

• T2DM patients with albuminuria, osteoporosis, and increased %TF are more prone to sarcopenia.
• Early evaluation for sarcopenia in T2DM patients is crucial for timely intervention.
• This study highlights the importance of monitoring muscle health in T2DM management.