Sayer AA, Cooper R, Arai H, Cawthon PM, Ntsama MJ, Fielding RA, Grounds MD, Witham MD, Cruz-Jentoft AJ. Sarcopenia
Nat Rev Dis Primers . 2024
"Every doctor should be familiar with sarcopenia". - AJ Cruz-Jentoft
Summary:
Sarcopenia is the accelerated loss of skeletal muscle mass and function commonly, but not exclusively, associated with advancing age. It is observed across many species including humans in whom it can lead to decline in physical function and mobility as well as to increased risk of adverse outcomes including falls, fractures and premature mortality. Although prevalence estimates vary because sarcopenia has been defined in different ways, even using a conservative approach, the prevalence is between 5% and 10% in the general population. A life course framework has been proposed for understanding not only the occurrence of sarcopenia in later life but also influences operating at earlier life stages with potentially important implications for preventive strategies. Harnessing progress in understanding the hallmarks of ageing has been key to understanding sarcopenia pathophysiology. Considerable convergence in approaches to diagnosis of sarcopenia has occurred over the last 10 years, with a growing emphasis on the central importance of muscle strength. Resistance exercise is currently the mainstay of treatment; however, it is not suitable for all. Hence, adjunctive and alternative treatments to improve quality of life are needed. An internationally agreed approach to definition and diagnosis will enable a step change in the field and is likely to be available in the near future through the Global Leadership Initiative in Sarcopenia.
Why do you highlight this publication?
Sarcopenia originated in the fields of geriatric medicine and nutrition. It is the key to understanding and preventing physical disability. In recent years, it has rapidly spread to other disciplines as it has been shown to predict prognosis in oncology, major surgery and many other chronic diseases. This review will allow those unfamiliar with the field to understand recent research and areas of uncertainty in the field.
Publication commented by:
Dr. Cruz-Jentoft
Geriatry Department, Head. HURYC
Geriatrics group, IRYCIS
