Sarcopenic obesity as a distinct geriatric syndrome: Implications for screening, risk stratification, and Dual-target care.

Sarcopenic obesity (SO) the coexistence of reduced muscle mass and excess adiposity represents a distinct geriatric syndrome rather than a coincidental overlap of two conditions. SO is driven by inflammation, insulin resistance, and myosteatosis, leading to accelerated functional decline, cardiometabolic risk, and higher mortality. Current diagnostic tools relying on BMI or isolated sarcopenia markers fail to capture this entity, delaying intervention. Recognition of SO requires integrated screening methods, novel risk indices, and dual-target therapies balancing fat loss with muscle preservation. Establishing SO as a clinical syndrome is essential for advancing risk stratification, optimizing management, and informing policy.