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BMC Public Health
Published in: BMC Public Health 1/2024

Open Access 01-12-2024 | Sarcopenia | Research

Sarcopenia in Thai community-dwelling older adults: a national, cross-sectional, epidemiological study of prevalence and risk factors

Authors: Ekasame Vanitcharoenkul, Aasis Unnanuntana, Pojchong Chotiyarnwong, Panai Laohaprasitiporn, Nath Adulkasem, Apichat Asavamongkolkul, Chandhanarat Chandhanayingyong

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2024

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Abstract

Background

Sarcopenia is an age-related condition characterized by a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass. It leads to declining physical performance, potentially culminating in a diminished quality of life or death. This study investigated the prevalence of sarcopenia and its associated risk factors among Thai community-dwelling individuals of advanced age.

Methods

Between March 2021 and August 2022, we conducted a nationwide community-based epidemiological survey across all six major regions of Thailand. Participants with sarcopenia were identified according to the 2019 criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS). The risk factors were examined using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of the 2456 participants, the overall prevalence of sarcopenia was 18.1%, with nearly two-thirds (66.9%) classified as having severe sarcopenia. Multivariate analysis identified six associated risk factors for sarcopenia. They are a lower body mass index (odds ratio [OR] = 11.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 7.8–17.4), suboptimal leg calf circumference (OR = 6.3, 95% CI = 4.3–9.5), male sex (OR = 2.8, 95% CI = 2.2–3.7), a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR = 2.3, 95% CI = 2.3–5.0), advanced age (OR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.3–3.3), and an increasing time in the timed up-and-go test (OR = 1.1, 95% CI = 1.0–1.1).

Conclusions

This is the first large-scale national study to represent the prevalence and risk factors for sarcopenia in Thai community-dwelling individuals of advanced age using the AWGS 2019 criteria. Interventions such as lifestyle modifications and appropriate nutrition should be promoted throughout adulthood to maintain muscle strength and delay the onset of sarcopenia, particularly in males.

Trial registration

The Central Research Ethics Committee of the National Research Council of Thailand authorized the study protocol (approval number COA-CREC023/2021).
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Sarcopenia in Thai community-dwelling older adults: a national, cross-sectional, epidemiological study of prevalence and risk factors
Authors
Ekasame Vanitcharoenkul
Aasis Unnanuntana
Pojchong Chotiyarnwong
Panai Laohaprasitiporn
Nath Adulkasem
Apichat Asavamongkolkul
Chandhanarat Chandhanayingyong
Publication date
01-12-2024
Publisher
BioMed Central
Keyword
Sarcopenia
Published in
BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2024
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-024-17804-7

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