Changes in skeletal muscle mass and quality are associated with type 2 Diabetes (T2D) and its complications. We evaluated the prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with T2D and its association with various anthropometric and metabolic parameters.
A total of 229 patients with T2D, ≥20-60 years, were screened for sarcopenia using handgrip strength (HGS) by dynamometer, physical performance test (by Short Physical and chair stand test), and height-adjusted appendicular skeletal muscle index (ASMI) by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) applying Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia (AWGS). Multiple logistic regressions were performed to identify the factors associated with sarcopenia.
The mean age was 46.2 ± 7.4 years with 55% being women. The prevalence of low HGS, poor physical performance, low ASMI, possible sarcopenia, sarcopenia, and severe sarcopenia was 16.2%, 39.3%, 33%, 43%, 18.8%, and 6.1%, respectively. Age >45 years and use of >2 oral hypoglycaemic agents (OHA’s) were risk factors for low HGS (OR:3.51, 95%CI = 1.5-8.3) and low ASMI (OR:2.40, 95%CI = 1.05, 5.49, p-0.04), respectively. Female sex (OR:3.3 1.8-6.1 p 45 years (OR:2.12, 95% CI = 1.2-3.8 p-0.012) and liver fibrosis (OR: 2.12, 95% CI = 1.01-4.46 p-0.048) were independently associated with poor performance. No association was found with HbA1c, dyslipidaemia, albuminuria, hypertension, or duration of diabetes and sarcopenia.
Sarcopenia is becoming increasingly recognized as a significant complication in younger individuals with T2D, and poor physical performance plays a vital role in its development. The prevalence of sarcopenia rises with advancing age, underscoring the importance of early intervention to address this condition.

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