Prevalence of osteosarcopenia and associated factors among older Vietnamese outpatients: A cross-sectional study

Osteosarcopenia - the concurrent presence of sarcopenia and low bone mass, including osteopenia or osteoporosis - is emerging as a significant health issue in aging populations. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of osteosarcopenia and identify factors associated with prevalent osteosarcopenia among older Vietnamese outpatients.

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 389 outpatients aged ≥60 years at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from 01/202511/2025. Osteosarcopenia was defined by coexistent low bone mass (osteopenia/osteoporosis via DXA) and sarcopenia defined according to AWGS 2019 as low muscle mass accompanied by low muscle strength, low physical performance or both. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess factors associated with osteosarcopenia. All data were analysed using R version 4.5.5.

The overall prevalence of osteosarcopenia was 26.7% (95% CI 22.6-31.3%). Prevalence was similar in women and men (26.3% vs 28.6%, p = 0.68). On multivariable analysis, older age (per 1-year increase; OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.02-1.10), lower BMI (per 1 kg/m2 increase; OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.50-0.65), coronary artery disease (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.09-3.95), and diabetes (OR 2.48, 95% CI 1.35-4.56) were independently associated with osteosarcopenia.

Osteosarcopenia affected about one in four older outpatients in this Vietnamese cohort. Older age, lower body mass index, coronary artery disease, and diabetes were independently associated with osteosarcopenia. These findings highlight the importance of early screening and integrated management of bone and muscle health in older adults.