High Prevalence of Sarcopenia and Sarcopenic Obesity in Indian Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Call for Early Intervention

Md Kamran Khan

Abstract: Introduction: Sarcopenia, characterized by age-related muscle loss, and sarcopenic obesity, the coexistence of sarcopenia with excess body fat, are emerging health concerns linked to the rising prevalence of diabetes. However, data on these conditions in Indian populations with diabetes remain scarce. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity and identify associated clinical risk factors in an Indian cohort. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 800 participants aged 32?65 years, recruited through systematic stratification and fixed quota sampling from medical camps across India. Participants were divided into three groups: diabetic (n = 300), non-diabetic (n = 250), and obese non-diabetic (n = 250). Assessments included detailed questionnaires, muscle mass measurement via bioimpedance analysis, and biochemical blood tests. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia consensus criteria, while sarcopenic obesity was identified as sarcopenia combined with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m². Logistic regression models were employed to evaluate risk factors, adjusting for potential confounders. Results: The prevalence of sarcopenia was significantly higher in the diabetic group (62%) compared to the non-diabetic (26%) and obese non-diabetic (38%) groups (p < 0.001). Similarly, sarcopenic obesity was more prevalent among diabetic participants (44%) than in non-diabetic (10%) and obese non-diabetic (27%) groups (p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, diabetes was associated with a 2.3-fold increased risk of sarcopenia (95% CI 1.1?4.7) and a 2.4-fold increased risk of sarcopenic obesity (95% CI 1.1?5.0). Additional independent risk factors included diabetes duration exceeding 10 years, poorly controlled diabetes, age over 60 years, low physical activity levels, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, all of which significantly elevated the odds of these conditions. Below is a table summarizing the key details and results of the cross-sectional study on sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity. Conclusion: Indian adults with type 2 diabetes face a substantial burden of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity, with prevalence rates markedly higher than in non-diabetic and obese non-diabetic populations. These findings underscore the urgent need for early and aggressive management of diabetes, including optimal glycemic control and lifestyle interventions such as increased physical activity and balanced nutrition, to preserve muscle mass and function. Addressing these conditions proactively could mitigate their impact on quality of life and reduce associated health complications in this population.

Keywords: Sarcopenia, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, muscle strength, physical performance

How to Cite?: Md Kamran Khan, "High Prevalence of Sarcopenia and Sarcopenic Obesity in Indian Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Call for Early Intervention", Volume 14 Issue 9, September 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 18-21, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25901204005, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25901204005