The Silent Threat of Sarcopenia Among Elderly Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

As global populations age, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and associated complications, such as sarcopenia, continues to increase. Sarcopenia, which involves the progressive decline in muscle mass and strength, is common among older adults and is associated with several negative health outcomes, including increased risk of falls, frailty, and mortality.

Despite its serious implications, the impact of sarcopenia on elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains under-researched in clinical settings. Given these challenges, there is a clear need for further investigation into how sarcopenia affects older diabetics.

Researchers from the Department of Geriatrics at Peking Union Medical College Hospital conducted a four-year prospective cohort study from January 2017 to January 2021. The study, published in Peking Union Medical College Hospital Medical Journalincluded 244 elderly people hospitalized with DM2. Using the Asian Sarcopenia Working Group’s 2014 diagnostic criteria, the team examined the long-term outcomes of these patients, focusing on the risks of severe disability, readmission, and all-cause mortality.

The study revealed that 25.4% of elderly diabetics had sarcopenia, with a median follow-up of 5.6 years. Those with sarcopenia were 4.7 times more likely to experience severe disability, 1.7 times more likely to be rehospitalized, and 2.3 times more likely to die from any cause, even after adjusting for factors such as age, sex, and comorbidities. Additionally, research noted that patients with sarcopenia had worse nutritional status, higher rates of incontinence and a history of falls, all contributing to their worse long-term outcomes.

Dr. Lin Kang, corresponding author of the study, emphasized the need for proactive screening for sarcopenia in elderly diabetic patients.

“Our research highlights the importance of recognizing sarcopenia as a key factor in managing the health of older people with diabetes. Early identification and targeted interventions for sarcopenia could significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of disability, readmission and mortality,” said Dr. Kang explained.

The study advocates the integration of sarcopenia screening into the routine care of elderly patients with DM2, particularly in hospital settings. Recommended interventions, including resistance training, nutritional support, and fall prevention strategies, could help mitigate the harmful effects of sarcopenia. Early intervention could not only improve patient outcomes, but also reduce healthcare costs and improve the overall well-being of older diabetics.

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