Risk of sarcopenia in community dwelling older adults in Kuwait

Introduction: Sarcopenia is characterized by a loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and/or physical performance, and is associated with numerous adverse health outcomes. Data on the risk of sarcopenia in Arabic speaking countries is lacking, in particular in Kuwait, and this study aimed to provide initial estimates of sarcopenia risk. Given that sarcopenia predicts frailty, we also examined how population characteristics interact with sarcopenia risk and key frailty determinants, including mobility, strength, independence, and falls risk.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included community-dwelling older adults in Kuwait City. In a single session, data collected included socio-demographics; sarcopenia risk using the SARC-F screening tool; independence in daily living using the Physical Self-Maintenance Scale (PSMS); fear of falling using the Short Falls Efficacy Scale-International (Short FES-I); frailty using the Fatigue, Resistance, Ambulation, Illnesses, and Loss of weight (FRAIL) scale; strength using handgrip strength and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (FTSTS); and mobility using the 4-meter gait speed test and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. Participants were classified as at risk (SARC-F ≥ 4) or not at risk (< 4). Associations were analyzed using Chi-square and ANOVA. Logistic regression identified factors linked to sarcopenia and frailty, treating the persons without frailty as the reference group. Model fit was assessed by McFadden’s R2.

Results: A total of 92 older adults participated in the study. Of these, 29 (31.5%) were at risk of sarcopenia (SARC-F ≥ 4). Females were significantly more likely to exhibit sarcopenia risk (47.4%) than males (20.4%) (p = 0.006). Sarcopenia risk was significantly associated with lower independence, slower gait speed, and higher age, FRAIL scores, TUG, and 5xSTS values. Logistic regression showed that female gender and advanced age (70–79 years) were significant predictors of sarcopenia risk. Frailty was present in 18.5% of participants and was strongly associated with multimorbidity (>3 chronic conditions). Concern about falling was common, with 73.9% reporting moderate to high concern.

Conclusion: The risk of sarcopenia among older adults in Kuwait may be high. Accurate risk estimates are needed, involving muscle mass assessments and exploration of risk factors in order to implement effective screening and intervention services.