Prevalence and factors associated with sarcopenia in elderly people referred by primary healthcare to a specialized service in an area of the Federal District of Brazil, 2015-2017

Abstract

To estimate the prevalence of sarcopenia and identify associated factors by sex in elderly people referred by Primary Healthcare to a geriatrics and gerontology reference service in an area of the Federal District in the period of 2015-2017. Methods: This is a longitudinal study that used the criteria of the European Working Group of Sarcopenia in Older People (hand grip, calf circumference and usual gait speed), in addition to clinical aspects and socioeconomic data. Results: 500 elderly people were evaluated in an area of the Federal District, of which 32.6% were pre-sarcopenic, 32.2% were sarcopenic and 7.6% were severely sarcopenic. Risk factors (>70 years and urinary incontinence) and protection factors (high body mass index) were identified. Heart disease and osteoporosis were also identified as risk factors for women and, for men, visual impairment, and occurrence of falls in the last six months were the risk factors identified before the anamnesis. Conclusion: The prevalence of 32.2% of sarcopenia and 7.6% of severe sarcopenia was observed in elderly people treated by Primary Healthcare in the Federal District, and age >70 years old and urinary incontinence were identified as risk factors. High body mass index was considered a protective factor. These data highlighted the need for public health strategies aimed at preventing and treating sarcopenia, considering regional particularities and risk factors specific to each community.