Mixed
Weakness (low grip strength) predicts mortality in older men, but the association with mortality is inconsistent and weaker in women compared to mobility impairment.
For older men, low grip strength is a significant warning sign for increased mortality risk. For women, the link is weaker and less consistent. Regular strength testing is a valuable tool for assessing long-term health risks, especially in men.
Mortality risk patterns were inconsistent. Weak and weakBMI criteria were associated with 63%–74% higher mortality rates among men, whereas in women, only weak was associated with a 48% higher rate.
Why this rating
Large sample but significant heterogeneity and inconsistent results across sex and criteria for mortality.
Source
Criteria for Clinically Relevant Weakness and Low Lean Mass and Their Longitudinal Association With Incident Mobility Impairment and Mortality: The Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) Sarcopenia Project
Robert R. McLean et al. · The Journals of Gerontology Series A · 2014
DOI 10.1093/gerona/glu012
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