Association Between Serum High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Levels and Low Muscle Strength Among Korean Adults

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Inflammation Research
• Muscle Physiology

Background:

• Chronic low-grade inflammation is a known factor in age-related muscle loss and functional decline.
• The association between inflammation markers and muscle strength in Asian populations requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels and low muscle strength in Korean adults.
• To identify specific demographic groups at higher risk.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from 14,354 Korean adults (aged ≥ 19) from the KNHANES VII survey (2016-2018).
• Defined low muscle strength by handgrip strength thresholds (men <28 kg, women <18 kg).
• Categorized serum hsCRP levels (normal <1.0 mg/L, elevated 1.0-3.0 mg/L, high ≥3.0 mg/L) and employed multivariable logistic regression.

Main Results:

• 27.7% of participants had elevated or high hsCRP levels.
• Low muscle strength was more prevalent in older adults (≥65 years): 22.7% of men and 34.1% of women.
• Elevated hsCRP correlated with increased odds of low muscle strength in middle-aged and older women, while high hsCRP was linked to higher risk in older men and women.

Conclusions:

• Higher hsCRP levels are independently associated with reduced muscle strength in middle-aged women and older adults.
• Strategies to downregulate inflammation, such as nutritional interventions, may be beneficial in preventing age-related muscle decline.