A critical review of current worldwide definitions of sarcopenia

Authors: FIELDING, ROGER - Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center On Aging At Tufts University; ALHMLY, HAYA - Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center On Aging At Tufts University

Submitted to: Calcified Tissue International
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/9/2023
Publication Date: 12/3/2023
Citation: Fielding, R.A., Alhmly, H. 2023. A critical review of current worldwide definitions of sarcopenia. Calcified Tissue International. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00223-023-01163-3.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00223-023-01163-3

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: With the increasing number of elderly individuals worldwide, the prevalence of age-related loss of muscle mass, referred to assarcopenia,is expected to increase. Sarcopenia is a relatively new recognized syndrome,which is thought to affect 13% individuals worldwide, and the significant efforts made by different groups have advanced our understanding of the diagnosis, treatment, and natural history of this condition. However, the challenge is now to standardize its measurement and diagnosis to facilitate research in this area and a greater understanding of this condition and its management between clinicians and researchers. The Global Leadership Initiative on Sarcopenia (GLIS) is at the forefront of an international effort to produce standardized definition of sarcopenia. Setting a definition for sarcopenia entails several considerations and trade-offs. In this critical review, we have addressed key challenges driving the process of standardizing the definition, while delving into future avenues in sarcopenia research. Establishing a clear consensus on the working definition of sarcopenia is essential not only for advancing research in this field but also for assessing the prognostic implications of diagnosing sarcopenia and determining the most suitable treatment for affected patients.