Use of Handgrip Strength as a Health Indicator in Public Sector Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Objectives: Handgrip strength (HGS) has been used as an important health indicator due to its ability to predict morbidity and mortality risks in various populations. The aim was to investigate the relationship between HGS and health parameters among public sector workers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out, including the participation of 129 workers. The body composition, presence of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs), physical activity level, and physical capacity (flexibility, HGS, and lower limb endurance) of the workers were evaluated. Results: The results showed that most of the employees, regardless of sex, work in the administrative sector, are aged 40 years or older, have chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs), and are physically inactive. The majority of women have a body mass index (BMI) within the normal range and are more flexible. On the other hand, men demonstrated greater lower limb endurance. Lower HGS was associated with a higher BMI, the presence of a CNCD, and worse lower limb endurance. A negative correlation was observed between HGS and age, BMI, and body fat. Conversely, a positive correlation was found between HGS and muscle mass, as well as with lower limb muscle endurance. Conclusions: It can be concluded that individuals with lower HGS are more likely to have a high BMI, develop a CNCD, and present worse lower muscular endurance. Additionally, HGS was found to be reduced in older individuals and/or those with higher levels of body fat, and to be higher in those with normal physical capacity and body composition.