Sri Lankan study finds high sarcopenia rates in older adults
A cross-sectional study published in BMC Geriatrics reports that sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia are highly prevalent among older adults in Sri Lanka. The research, conducted in the Kurunegala and Gampaha Districts, examined 200 individuals aged 65 years and older. The findings indicate that 30.5% of the participants met the criteria for sarcopenia, while 58.5% were classified as having possible sarcopenia. Only 11.0% of the sample showed no signs of the condition. These results highlight a significant public health concern in a region where evidence on muscle health in the elderly has previously been limited.
The study utilized the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) 2019 criteria to classify participants. Sarcopenia is characterized by progressive declines in muscle mass and strength. The researchers aimed to determine the prevalence of these conditions and identify factors associated with muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance. By focusing on both institutionalized and community-dwelling older adults, the study provides a broader perspective on the demographic affected by this condition in Sri Lanka.
The sample consisted of 100 institutionalized older adults and 100 community-dwelling older adults, selected through convenience sampling. Data collection included sociodemographic information, anthropometric measurements, body composition analysis, dietary intake, physical activity levels, and nutritional status. The use of a mixed sample of residential statuses helps in understanding how living environments might influence muscle health in older populations.
Statistical analysis involved Spearman’s correlation, Mann-Whitney U tests, and multivariable Gamma regression with a log link. The regression models were adjusted for age, sex, and residential status to isolate the specific associations with muscle strength, mass, and performance.
Significant sex differences were observed in the prevalence of sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia. Possible sarcopenia was more prevalent among women, with 76.0% of female participants classified in this category. In contrast, sarcopenia was more prevalent among men, with 57.0% of male participants meeting the criteria for the condition.
After adjusting for age, sex, and residential status, several factors were associated with lower handgrip strength. Older age, female sex, institutional residence, lower calf circumference, and lower energy intake were all linked to reduced handgrip strength.
Regarding physical performance, older age, institutional residence, higher waist-to-hip ratio, lower energy intake, and lower Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) scores were associated with slower gait speed.
In terms of muscle mass, higher Body Mass Index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio, calf circumference, and male sex were associated with higher appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI).
The study concludes that sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia are highly prevalent in this convenience sample of older adults. The findings highlight the need for routine screening and nutrition-focused strategies to support muscle health. The study’s limitations include the use of convenience sampling, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Subject of Research: Prevalence and associated factors of sarcopenia in older adults in Sri Lanka
Article Title: Prevalence of sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia and factors associated with muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance among institutionalized and community-dwelling older adults in Sri Lanka
Article References: Hirimuthugodage, T. K., Wijesekara, T. H., & Rathnayake, K. M. (2026). Prevalence of sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia and factors associated with muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance among institutionalized and community-dwelling older adults in Sri Lanka. BMC Geriatrics . https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-026-08645-7
Keywords: sarcopenia, older adults, Sri Lanka, muscle strength, physical performance, nutrition, public health, cross-sectional study, Prevalence, possible, factors, associated
News Source: Ophelia Keating. (November 10, 2026). Sri Lankan study finds high sarcopenia rates in older adults. Scienmag.
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