J Agric Med Community Health.  2023 Dec;48(4):275-284. 10.5393/JAMCH.2023.48.4.275.

Association between Low Hand Grip Strength and Decreased Femoral Neck Bone Mineral Density in Korean Fishery Workers

• Kim MJ
• Lee GY
• Sung JH
• Hong SJ
• Park KS

• KMID: 2551408
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5393/JAMCH.2023.48.4.275

Abstract

Objectives
This study aimed to assess hand grip strength and femoral neck bone mineral density levels among Korean fishery workers and investigate their association.
Methods
Hand grip strength and femoral neck bone mineral density were measured in a survey and health examination conducted in 2021 among fishery workers in a southern region of South Korea. Covariates including gender, age, education level, income level, smoking behavior, drinking behavior, family history of hip fractures, use of calcium and vitamin D supplements, hypertension, diabetes, regular exercise, and body mass index were investigated. Multiple regression analysis was employed to assess the association between hand grip strength and femoral neck bone mineral density.
Results
Among 147 fishery workers, 8.16% exhibited low hand grip strength levels indicative of possible sarcopenia, and a significant association was found between low hand grip strength and decreased femoral neck bone mineral density (β = -89.14, 95% CI = -160.50, -17.78). Additionally, factors such as women gender, advanced age, family history of hip fractures, and a body mass index below 25 kg/m 2 were associated with decreased femoral neck bone mineral density. In the subgroup analysis by gender, a correlation between low hand grip strength and decreased femoral neck bone mineral density was observed only in men.
Conclusions
Further research is needed to explore various determinants and intervention strategies to prevent musculoskeletal disorders among fishery workers, ultimately enhancing their quality of life and well-being.

Keyword

Hand strength; Bone density; Fisheries; Rural population