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Global prevalence of sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia: a systematic review and meta‐analysis

Fanny Petermann-Rocha, Viktoria Balntzi, S. Gray, J. Lara, F. Ho, J. Pell, C. Celis-Morales

Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, 2021

1,285 citations

Abstract

Sarcopenia is defined as the loss of muscle mass and strength. Despite the seriousness of this disease, a single diagnostic criterion has not yet been established. Few studies have reported the prevalence of sarcopenia globally, and there is a high level of heterogeneity between studies, stemmed from the diagnostic criteria of sarcopenia and the target population. The aims of this systematic review and meta‐analysis were (i) to identify and summarize the diagnostic criteria used to define sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia and (ii) to estimate the global and region‐specific prevalence of sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia by sociodemographic factors.

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Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.

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