Background: Sarcopenia frequently manifests in an aging population. Its prevalence is notable among adults aged 60 to 70 years, affecting 5% to 13% of this age group. The prevalence increases over the age of 80, encompassing a range of 11% to 50%. This significantly heightens the risk of various health conditions, including falls and infections. To alleviate the challenges posed by sarcopenia, it is imperative that factors associated with the condition are thoroughly investigated and well-established.

Objective: To examine the prevalence of sarcopenia among older adults and explore the factors associated with this condition in depth.

Materials and Methods: The present study was a retrospective cross-section study. The data were obtained through a meticulous review of medical records and diet diaries of elderly patients in the Geriatric Clinic of Rajavithi Hospital between November 2022 and May 2023. Three hundred forty-one adults aged 60 years and above were included as participants in the study. To analyze the data comprehensively, both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed as the primary statistical methods.

Results: The prevalence of sarcopenia was 36.66%. Several factors exhibited a significant association with sarcopenia, including age over 74 years (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 4.89, 95% CI 2.51 to 9.50, p<0.001), absence of obesity (adjusted OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.40, p<0.001), daily protein intake of 60 grams or less (adjusted OR 6.50, 95% CI 2.80 to 15.09, p<0.001) and daily energy intake 1,410 kilocalories or less (adjusted OR 2.49, 95% CI 1.06 to 5.82, p=0.036). 

Conclusion: The prevalence of sarcopenia among the elderly patients in the geriatric clinic was significantly elevated. Sarcopenia exhibited statistically significant association with age, obesity, protein intake, and energy intake per day. Therefore, ensuring sufficient daily protein intake should be a priority in preventing sarcopenia among older adults. 

Received 19 January 2024 | Revised 27 March 2024 | Accepted 2 April 2024

DOI:10.35755/jmedassocthai.2024.5.13989