Prevalence and factors affecting sarcopenia in middle-aged and older adults with knee osteoarthritis: A multicenter cross-sectional study from South China.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of sarcopenia in middle-aged and older adults with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and to analyze its influencing factors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 435 patients with KOA from three general hospitals in Guangdong Province, China. Patients with sarcopenia were identified according to the 2019 criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS). Sociodemographic variables, clinical characteristics and body composition were collected. Univariate analysis of variance and binary logistic regression analysis were used to determine the influencing factors.

RESULTS

The prevalence of sarcopenia among patients with KOA was 21.43%, indicating a considerable burden in this population. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that older age, abnormal calf circumference, higher body fat percentage, higher Kellgren-Lawrence classification, and sedentary behavior were significant risk factors for sarcopenia, while body mass index was identified as a protective factor.

CONCLUSION

Sarcopenia is relatively common among patients with KOA, underscoring the importance of greater clinical awareness and prioritization of muscle health in this population. These findings provide important evidence for identifying high-risk individuals and inform future strategies for early recognition and intervention.