Malnutrition by the GLIM criterion and reduced HGS are associated with anthropometric indicators in hospitalized patients

In the hospital environment, anthropometry is commonly used to assess nutritional status. To assess whether muscle strength and malnutrition, as defined by the GLIM (global leadership initiative on malnutrition) criteria, are associated with anthropometric indicators in hospitalized patients. In a cross-sectional study, body mass index (BMI), mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), triceps skinfold thickness (TSF), arm muscle circumference (AMC), calf circumference (CC), body weight loss, HGS, and GLIM criteria were investigated. The Chi-square, Fisher, and Mann-Whitney tests were used for comparisons, and the Kappa coefficient for agreement analyses. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to investigate the association between the GLIM criterion and FPM and anthropometric indicators. HGS (p = 0.0004, OR = 15.193, 95% CI = 3.397; 67,956) and the GLIM criterion (p = 0.0002, OR = 6,142, 95% CI = 2,352; 16,035) were associated with CC < 31 cm. Age (p = 0.0019, OR = 1.054, 95% CI = 1.020; 1,090), the mean HGS (p = 0.0064, OR = 4,094, 95%CI = 1,487; 11.265), and the GLIM criterion (p = 0.0005, OR = 4.798, 95% CI = 1.994; 11,548) were associated with BMI (a higher chance of low body weight by BMI). Reduced HGS and malnutrition, as defined by the GLIM criterion, are associated with CC. Age, HGS, and the GLIM criterion are associated with low body weight, as measured by BMI. These findings reinforce the relevance of using these tools for nutritional care in the hospital setting.