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Association and Prevalence of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Individuals with Sarcopenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Lek-Hong Tan, Eric Chieh-Lung Chou

Medicina, 2025

84,484 participants · 5 citations

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Sarcopenia and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) are both prevalent among older adults and may share underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. However, their association has not been systematically quantified. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between sarcopenia and LUTSs, including the pooled estimates of prevalence and odds ratios (ORs), and to explore the influence of diagnostic definitions and study-level factors. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Embase for studies published between 1 January 2000 and 26 April 2025. This study adhered to PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251037459). Eligible observational studies reported LUTS prevalence or ORs in individuals with sarcopenia, low muscle strength (LMS), low lean mass (LLM), low gait speed (LGS), or sarcopenia risk identified by SARC-F (score ≥4). Pooled ORs and prevalence rates were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were performed based on sarcopenia definitions—Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) and European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP)—as well as LUTS subtypes and diagnostic components. Univariate meta-regression assessed associations with age, BMI, sex distribution, WHO region, and risk of bias. Results: Twenty-five studies comprising 84,484 participants were included. Sarcopenia was significantly associated…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 84,484 participants or records.

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