The Prevalence and Related Factors of Sarcopenia among the Elderly in Sattahip District, Chonburi Province

Abstract

Background: Sarcopenia is one of the common problems among the elderly.Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia and associated factors with sarcopenia among the elderly.Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in 147 subjects aged 60 years old and over living in Sattahip District, Chonburi Province. All participants were evaluated for sarcopenia based on Asian Working Group of Sarcopenia (AWGS) criteria: body composition by bioimpedance analysis (BIA), handgrip strength by dynamometer and gait speed by walking a 6-m distance. The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) was used, and 24-hour recalls combined with 2-day food record were applied to assess of energy and protein intake. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, and multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results: The finding showed that the prevalence of sarcopenia was 48.3%. After multivariate analysis of risk factors associated with sarcopenia were male, age≥70 years, body mass index (BMI) <18.5 kg/m2 and 23.0-24.9 kg/m2 and protein intake <40 gram/day and ≥ 40-59.9 gram/day with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 3.750 (95% CI = 1.071-5.590), 5.542 (95% CI = 1.073-8.052), 5.790 (95% CI = 1.001-6.161), 1.929 (95% CI = 1.096-5.680), 4.948 (95% CI = 1.238-5.292) and 1.221 (95% CI = 1.019- 4.776) respectively.Conclusion: Almost a half of the rural elderly had a sarcopenia. As the prevalence is high, the screening for sarcopenia should be performed in the community especially older age and under-weight subjects. Increasing of adequate protein intake and muscle-strengthening activities should be promoted.