Prevalence and risk factors of sarcopenic obesity in Thai people with diabetes: A cross-sectional study

Sarcopenic obesity is an age-related condition characterized by a simultaneous decline in muscle mass and function and by increased adipose tissue. Its prevalence, particularly in Asian populations with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with sarcopenic obesity in Thai people with T2DM.

This cross-sectional, observational study included 329 Thai adults with established type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), consecutively recruited from an outpatient clinic. Participants underwent standardized assessments, including bioelectrical impedance analysis, physical performance testing, and laboratory evaluations. Obesity was defined based on percentage body fat derived from bioelectrical impedance analysis, rather than body mass index. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of sarcopenic obesity and to identify associated risk factors. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors after adjustment for potential confounders.

The prevalence of sarcopenic obesity in T2DM was 16.4%, with rates of 15.4% in males and 17.5% in females. Sarcopenia was present in 23.7% of participants, including 7.3% with sarcopenia alone (without obesity). Obesity without sarcopenia was reported in 61.1% (95% CI: 55.7, 66.2). Factors significantly associated with a higher risk of sarcopenic obesity included older age (adjusted OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.01-1.15, P < 0.001) and smaller calf circumference (aOR 1.35, 95% CI 1.11-1.67, P < 0.001). Protective factor included greater handgrip strength (aOR 0.93, 95% CI 0.87-0.99, P < 0.001).

The study found a high prevalence of sarcopenic obesity among Thai people with T2DM. Older age and smaller calf circumference were identified as key risk factors. Higher muscle strength was associated with a lower risk of developing sarcopenic obesity.