Ann Geriatr Med Res.  2024 Jun;28(2):184-191. 10.4235/agmr.23.0194.

Evaluation of Factors Influencing Handgrip Strength Asymmetry in Older Peruvian Adults

• Zevallos A
• Pajuelo-Vásquez R
• Camacho-Caballero K
• Corcuera-Ciudad R
• Goicochea-Romero P
• Gutiérrez-Baca W
• Chambergo-Michilot D
• Parodi JF
• Runzer-Colmenares FM

• KMID: 2556720
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4235/agmr.23.0194

Abstract

Background
Sarcopenia is a musculoskeletal disease involving the reduction of muscle mass, strength, and performance. Handgrip strength (HGS) measurements included in frailty assessments are great biomarkers of aging and are related to functional deficits. We assessed the association between potential influencing factors and HGS asymmetry in older Peruvian adults.
Methods
We used a database of the Peruvian Naval Medical Center "Cirujano Santiago Távara" located in Callao, Peru. All the patients included were ≥60 years old and had an HGS measurement in the dominant and non-dominant hand.
Results
From a total of 1,468 patients, 74.66% had HGS asymmetry. After adjustment, calf circumference weakness (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR]=1.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.15), falls risk (aPR = 1.08; 95% CI, 1.02–1.16), and an altered Lawton index (aPR=0.92; 95% CI, 0.84–0.99) were associated with HGS asymmetry.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that HGS asymmetry should be measured along with other geriatric assessments used to evaluate health outcomes in the elderly to enhance health promotion and prevention aimed at preserving muscle strength to curb functional limitations in the elderly.

Keyword

Sarcopenia; Hand strength; Aging; Geriatric assessment