Screening Risk of Sarcopenic Obesity Using SARC-F and Handgrip Strength in Outpatients with Diabetes.

Abstract

Background: Sarcopenic obesity (SO), defined as the coexistence of low muscle mass and function and excessive fat mass, is increasingly recognized as a health concern in older individuals with diabetes. Despite its clinical importance, SO often remains undiagnosed in outpatient settings due to complex diagnostic requirements. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the risk of SO using simple screening tools, namely the SARC-F questionnaire and handgrip strength (HGS), and to identify associated clinical, functional, and metabolic factors in diabetic patients aged 50 and older. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted with 276 diabetic outpatients. Risk of SO was defined based on a body mass index of 30 kg/m² or more, combined with either a SARC-F score of 4 or above or low HGS values (below 35 kg for men and 20 kg for women). Data on comorbidities, functionality, falls, depression, and metabolic control were collected. Results: The prevalence of SO risk was 16.2% with HGS and 8.7% with SARC-F. Falls, depressive symptoms, and reduced quality of life were associated with SARC-F-based SO, while hypertension, elevated HbA1c, and lower quality of life were linked to HGS-based SO. Conclusion: Simple screening methods can help identify SO risk in diabetic outpatients and support timely clinical decision-making.