Sarcopenia and atherosclerotic occlusive disease: how much we know and what we need to know about this association?

Purpose/Background: Sarcopenia (decrease of muscle mass and function) has been linked with atherosclerosis [1]. The EWGSOP2 updated consensus, uses low muscle strength as the primary indicator of sarcopenia [2]. It is acknowledged that strength is better than mass for predicting adverse outcomes [2]. Handgrip strength (HGS) is a simple assessment to estimate overall muscular strength [3]. and is associated with cardiovascular mortality [4]. Objective: Analyze the relationship between HGS and atherosclerotic disease (carotid artery disease + lower extremity artery disease). Methods: Prospective observation study was conducted from January to December 2019. The clinical and demographic data was recorded. Isometric HGS was measured with an adjustable handheld dynamometer (Jamar The higher value of each arm was used to classify the patient as sarcopenic or non-sarcopenic. Definition of sarcopenia: HGS