ABSTRACT
@#Introduction: Sarcopenia is one of the geriatric syndromes affecting the ability of older adults to lead an independent living. However, its risk factors among Malaysian older adults are yet to be determined. This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors of sarcopenia among community-dwelling older adults in Klang Valley. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 393 Malaysians aged 60 and above, residing in urban areas of Klang Valley recruited through convenience sampling. Socio-demographic and food intake information were obtained using validated questionnaires. Cut-off points for sarcopenia screening were obtained from the Asian Working Group of Sarcopenia(AWGS) while body impedance analysis(BIA) was employed to determine skeletal muscle index. A handgrip dynamometer was used to assess dominant handgrip strength and a 6-meter gait speed test was used to determine walking speed. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine the risk factors of sarcopenia. Results: Prevalence of sarcopenia was 33.6% and women(35.9%) were more affected compared to men(30.1%). The mean age of women assessed to have sarcopenia(69.1±6.5 years old) was higher compared to men(68.3±5.8 years old) (p<0.05). After adjusting for confounding factors, older adults with one year increased in age and one mg decreased in habitual dietary iron intake were estimated to be 1.08 times and 0.93 times the chances to have sarcopenia respectively. Conclusion: Approximately one-third of community-dwelling older adults in Klang Valley were assessed to have sarcopenia. Older adults aged 60 years and above and those with low dietary iron intake were at an increased risk of developing sarcopenia.