Risk Factors Associated with Acute Sarcopenia in Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered lifestyles, leading to reduced physical activity and dietary changes.
• These lifestyle modifications pose a risk for accelerating sarcopenia, a condition characterized by loss of muscle mass and strength.
• Understanding sarcopenia's acceleration during the pandemic is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and evaluate risk factors associated with acute sarcopenia in individuals hospitalized due to COVID-19.
• To determine the prevalence of acute sarcopenia among COVID-19 patients admitted to a hospital setting.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2021 and March 2022 in Brazil.
• Acute sarcopenia was assessed using the SARC-F questionnaire, grip strength measurements, and calf circumference.
• Data from 213 hospitalized COVID-19 patients were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The study included 213 patients, with a mean age of 57.4 years and 63.8% males.
• A prevalence of 16.0% for acute sarcopenia was observed among the hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
• Independent risk factors identified for acute sarcopenia were advanced age and a weight loss of 3% or more prior to hospitalization.

Conclusions:

• Acute sarcopenia affects 16% of patients hospitalized with COVID-19.
• Advanced age and significant pre-hospitalization weight loss are independent risk factors for developing acute sarcopenia in this population.
• These findings highlight the importance of monitoring muscle health in elderly COVID-19 patients, especially those experiencing weight loss.