Sarcopenic Obesity in Indian Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors

Introduction: Sarcopenic obesity, a condition combining muscle loss and obesity, is common in older adults and increasingly seen in younger individuals due to various risk factors. This study aims to assess the prevalence of SO in Indian adults with T2DM and identify key risk factors to help in early detection and prevention. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study, conducted from October 2022 to July 2024 at a tertiary care hospital of Northern India, assessed the prevalence of sarcopenic obesity in Indian adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Participants included obese T2DM patients over 40 years, excluding those with conditions like malignancies or chronic diseases. The diagnosis of sarcopenia was made based on the recommendations of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS). Key assessments involved demographic data, metabolic and physical evaluations, and the use of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) to categorize physical activity levels. Results: Data from 151 patients revealed a mean age of 57.2 ± 8.4 years, with an overall prevalence of sarcopenic obesity (SO) at 44%. SO was more prevalent in males (48.38%) compared to females (40.45%). SO was significantly associated with older age, low physical activity, poor glycemic control, insulin use, and the presence of diabetes complications. Conclusion: This study identifies a high prevalence of sarcopenic obesity (SO) in older Indian adults with Type 2 Diabetes. Key risk factors include low physical activity, poor glycemic control, insulin use, and diabetes-related complications, while hypertension and dyslipidemia were not significantly linked to SO.