Association between thyroid hormone and pre-sarcopenic obesity in euthyroid population: a prospective cohort study

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Gerontology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Sarcopenia and obesity are significant health concerns in aging populations.
• Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in metabolism and muscle function.
• The relationship between thyroid indicators and sarcopenic conditions in euthyroid individuals requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between thyroid indicators and the development of pre-sarcopenic obesity, pre-sarcopenia, and visceral obesity.
• To analyze these associations within a community-based cohort of euthyroid participants.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 1280 euthyroid residents over 40 years old was followed for 2.1 years.
• Thyroid indicators, visceral fat area (VFA), and skeletal muscle mass were assessed.
• Pre-sarcopenic obesity was defined as the presence of both pre-sarcopenia and visceral obesity.

Main Results:

• Higher baseline serum free triiodothyronine (fT3) levels were associated with an increased risk of incident pre-sarcopenic obesity and pre-sarcopenia.
• An increase in serum fT3 levels over time was positively associated with the development of both conditions.
• Risk ratios indicated a significant association between elevated fT3 and these conditions.

Conclusions:

• Elevated serum fT3 levels are associated with increased risks of developing pre-sarcopenic obesity and pre-sarcopenia in euthyroid Chinese adults.
• These findings highlight a potential link between thyroid hormone status and the development of age-related body composition changes.