Trends in screening tools for sarcopenia: A bibliometric analysis

Sarcopenia, characterized by the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, poses a significant health challenge in aging populations. Early identification through effective screening tools is critical to mitigate risks such as falls, fractures, and frailty. This study aimed to analyze global research trends in sarcopenia screening tools using bibliometric methods to identify key contributors and emerging hotspots, thereby guiding future research directions.

Data were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) for the period from January 2013 to March 2025. A total of 180 articles were analyzed using bibliometric tools such as the R package bibliometrix, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace. The analysis focused on publication trends, citation impact, co-authorship networks, and keyword co-occurrence to map research trends and identify influential studies and screening tools.

The analysis revealed a steady increase in research output since 2013, with an annual growth rate of 38.16%. China emerged as the leading contributor, accounting for 30% of publications, followed by Japan and Brazil. Among the screening tools investigated, the Strength, Assistance in walking, Rise from a chair, Climb stairs, and Falls (SARC-F) questionnaire was the most studied tool, followed by SARC-F combined with calf circumference (SARC-CalF) and calf circumference measurements. Citation analysis highlighted pivotal studies on SARC-F validation, while emerging hotspots included tools like the Mini Sarcopenia Risk Assessment (MSRA) and Ishii test, reflecting a shift toward more practical and accessible screening methods.

This bibliometric analysis maps global advancements in sarcopenia screening tools, highlighting China's prolific research output (30% of publications) and the development of culturally adapted instruments in Japan (Ishii test, Yubi-wakka method). The SARC-F questionnaire dominates research focus, spurring innovations including SARC-CalF and calf circumference metrics. The findings advocate standardized validation frameworks and integration of evidence-based screening into geriatric care policies, emphasizing tool accessibility and clinical utility to combat sarcopenia in aging populations.