Sarcopenia prevalence and affecting factors in the geriatric population in primary care

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia and to identify the associated demographic, clinical, and anthropometric factors in the geriatric population aged 65 years and older presenting to primary healthcare services. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2023 and September 2024, including 145 individuals aged 65 and older registered at a Family Health Center in the Şehzadeler district of Manisa. Data were collected using a sociodemographic information form, the SARC-F (Strength, Assistance with walking, Rise from a chair, Climb stairs, Falls) scale, and the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF). Participants' muscle strength was assessed by measuring handgrip strength with a hydraulic dynamometer, calf circumference was measured as an indicator of muscle mass, and physical performance was evaluated using the 4-meter walk test. Data were analyzed using SPSS 27, and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors. Results: The mean age of the 145 participants was 71.11±5.81 years, and 55.2% were female. The prevalence of sarcopenia was found to be 29.7%. Of these cases, 83.7% were classified as 'probable sarcopenia' and 16.3% as 'confirmed sarcopenia'. Sarcopenia was significantly associated with advanced age, female gender, an education level below high school, and risk of malnutrition (all p<0.05). In the logistic regression analysis, increasing age (OR=1.123), female gender (OR=2.4), and low handgrip strength (OR=0.807) were identified as independent risk factors for sarcopenia. Furthermore, when examining the severity of sarcopenia, living alone was found to be a significant factor for 'confirmed sarcopenia' (p=0.010). Conclusion: The prevalence of sarcopenia is high in the geriatric population presenting to primary care. Advanced age, female gender, low education level, and risk of malnutrition are significant determinants. Early detection of at-risk individuals in the primary care setting using simple screening tools like SARC-F and handgrip strength measurement is crucial for preventing adverse outcomes such as disability and falls associated with sarcopenia. Keywords: Sarcopenia, Geriatric Population, Primary Care.