Handgrip strength is positively related to blood pressure and hypertension risk: results from the National Health and nutrition examination survey

The offsetting relationship between hand grip strength and hypertension: A cross-sectional study from physically disabled over 50 years old in China

OBJECTIVES

To explore the relationship between hand grip strength (HGS) and blood pressure in physically disabled individuals over 50 years old.

METHODS

The research adopts a cross-sectional survey, and the data comes from the "2022-2023 Physical Health Monitoring and Scientific and Technological Services for Physical Disabilities" jointly carried out by Beijing Sport University and China Disabled Sports Management Center. Select physically disabled individuals over 50 years old and collect physical fitness measurement data. HGS was measured and adjusted based on body weight and waist circumference, with standard normal conversion. The relationship between HGS and blood pressure was analyzed using multiple linear regression, and further logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between standard HGS and the risk of abnormal blood pressure.

RESULTS

695 disabled individuals participated in the experiment, including 402 males (57.84%) and 293 females (42.16%). Multiple linear regression analysis found that for each standard deviation increase in the standardized Z-value of relative HGS, the systolic and diastolic blood pressure of male individuals decreased by 2.391 mmHg (P = 0.008) and 1.229 mmHg (P = 0.025); decreased by 2.336 mmHg (P = 0.026) and 1.585 mmHg (P = 0.008), respectively, for female. The increase in HGS reduced the risk of hypertension in physical disabilities in males [OR = 0.820 95%CIs (0.670, 0.952)] (P = 0.003) and females [OR = 0.735 95%CIs (0.472, 0.986)] (P = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

The HGS of middle-aged and elderly physically disabled individuals negatively correlates with blood pressure, indicating the importance of increasing muscle strength (HGS) in preventing blood pressure.

An Indian classical dance form, Kathak in maintaining handgrip strength symmetry and reducing the risk of hypertension

BACKGROUND

The present paper aimed to study handgrip strength (HGS) asymmetry and its association with hypertension in a sample of Kathak dancers and non-dancers of North India.

METHODS

Data on HGS and blood pressure were collected from 206 Kathak dancers and 235 age-matched controls, using standardized protocols. Pearson correlation coefficients assessed the association between HGS and hypertension, and binary logistic regression identified the risk of developing hypertension.

RESULTS

HGS asymmetry was higher among non-dancers. In Kathak dancers, systolic blood pressure (SBP) was positively correlated with HGS and negatively correlated with HGS asymmetry whereas diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was negatively correlated with both HGS and HGS asymmetry. Dancers with high HGS, have significantly reduced risk of developing hypertension. Non-dancers with HGS asymmetry were 1.8 times more likely to report hypertension, relative to dancers.

CONCLUSION

Kathak may be used as an alternative method for maintaining HGS symmetry and reducing the risk of developing hypertension.

Association Between Typologies of Sedentary Behavior and Muscle Strength, Gait Speed, and Balance in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Knowledge of how the different types of sedentary behaviors (SB) are associated with functional limitations can guide professionals who work with older adults on better recommendations about the amount of daily time that should be encouraged in each type of SB. The objective was to estimate the associations between two SB typologies (SB television [TV] and SB computer/internet) and the presence of handgrip strength, lower limb strength, gait speed, and balance limitations in Brazilian community-dwelling older adults. This is a cross-sectional study with 1,298 community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years). SB was assessed by self-reporting daily time spent watching TV or using computer/internet (categorized into <2, 3-4, and ≥5 hr/day). Outcomes were handgrip strength, lower limb strength, gait speed, and balance limitations considering referenced cutoff points. Older adults in SB TV ≥5 hr/day had 1.75 (95% confidence interval [CI] [1.07, 2.86]) and 1.88 (95% CI [1.02, 3.46]) times more chances of handgrip strength and gait speed limitations, respectively. On the other hand, those who spent 3-4 and ≥5 hr/day in SB computer/internet had 0.45 (95% CI [0.20, 0.99]) and 0.37 (95% CI [0.15, 0.93]) had less chances of lower limb strength and balance limitations, respectively. In conclusion, functional limitations would be associated differently depending on the type of SB in the older adults sampled.

Grip strength positively correlates with blood pressure in individuals with abnormal adiposity

Although strong positive correlations exist between grip strength and cardiovascular health, the association between grip strength and blood pressure (BP) is less clear. In this regard, a more precise relationship between grip strength and BP may be revealed by considering adiposity. We examined the association between grip strength and BP in 9424 individuals aged 18-92 years, while controlling for or stratifying by body mass index (BMI) or body fat (BF)%. Grip strength, BP and BF% were determined using dynamometry, sphygmomanometry and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Overall, those with elevated BP had greater grip strength than those with normal BP (39.17 kg vs 38.38 kg, p < 0.001); however, following stratification this was only observed in overweight or obese individuals (42.08 kg vs 41.10 kg, p = 0.003 and 41.34 kg vs 40.03 kg, p = 0.033), and those within the highest BF% tertile (37.95 kg vs 36.52 kg, p < 0.001). Overall, higher grip strength was associated with an increased odds for elevated BP (OR = 1.014, 95% CI = 1.004-1.024, p = 0.004); however, after stratification the increased odds was only observed in overweight or obese individuals (OR = 1.025, 95% CI = 1.010-1.039, p < 0.001 and OR = 1.018, 95% CI = 1.004-1.031, p = 0.010), and those within the highest BF% tertile (OR = 1.036, 95% CI = 1.022-1.051, p < 0.001). Individuals with low grip strength and high BF% had lower odds for elevated BP (OR = 0.514, 95% CI = 0.341-0.775, p = 0.002), whereas those with low grip strength and low BF% had higher odds for elevated BP (OR = 2.162, 95% CI = 1.026-4.555, p = 0.043). Our findings show that higher grip strength is related to higher BP in overweight or obese individuals, or those with a high BF%. Having a BMI < 25 kg/m2 or lower BF% may neutralise this association.

Muscle quality is negatively related to hypertension prevalence in adults: Results from NHANES 2011-2014

Resistance training could counter hypertension and improve muscle quality (MQ), but current evidence about the correlation between MQ and hypertension is limited. The authors aimed to explore this correlation using the data of participants aged 20-59 from NHANES 2011-2014 via a cross-sectional study. The MQ was quantified as handgrip strength (kg)/lean soft tissue mass (kg) of the dominant arm. Weighted multivariate logistic regression models were mainly utilized to investigate the MQ-hypertension association; linear trend tests and subgroup analysis were also conducted. Moreover, the authors employed weighted multivariate linear regression models to uncover the association between blood pressure (BP) and MQ. Four thousand four hundred and sixty-nine individuals were enrolled, and 1167 were hypertensive. Hypertensive participants had a lower MQ than normotensive participants. In the totally adjusted model, each unit elevation in MQ was related to a 7% reduction in hypertension prevalence (p =.002). There was a decreasing trend in hypertension prevalence and in systolic BP as the MQ increased from the bottom to the top quartile across all three models (p for trend ≤.01), with a 28% difference (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.54, 0.95) in hypertension prevalence and a 1.88 mm Hg (95% CI: -3.56, -0.20) difference in SBP between the top and bottom quartiles in the fully adjusted model. Subgroup analysis further confirmed the MQ-hypertension inverse association. In conclusions, the MQ was negatively associated with hypertension prevalence and systolic BP, which suggests the MQ may be a protective factor for hypertension and need to be improved.

Water Intake and Handgrip Strength in US Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on NHANES 2011-2014 Data

This study aimed to examine the relationship between daily total intake of water (DTIW) and handgrip strength (HGS) among US adults and to explore the impact of water intake on muscle function and health, providing a reference for public health policies and health education. Using the data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2014, a cross-sectional survey design was adopted to analyze 5427 adults (48.37% female and 51.63% male) aged 20 years and above. DTIW was assessed using two non-consecutive 24 h dietary recall interviews, and the HGS level was measured using a Takei Dynamometer. Weighted generalized linear regression models and restricted cubic spline plots were used to analyze the linear and nonlinear associations between DTIW and HGS level and to conduct a gender subgroup analysis and an interaction effect test. The results showed that there were significant differences in HGS and other characteristics among different quartile groups of DTIW (p < 0.05). There was a significant nonlinear trend (exhibiting an inverted U-curve) between DTIW and HGS (p for nonlinear = 0.0044), with a cut-off point of 2663 g/day. Gender subgroup analysis showed that the nonlinear trend (exhibiting an inverted U-curve) was significant only in males (p for nonlinear = 0.0016), with a cut-off point of 2595 g/day. None of the stratified variables had an interaction effect on the association between DTIW and HGS (p for interaction > 0.05). In conclusion, this study found a nonlinear association between DTIW and HGS levels, as well as a gender difference. This finding provides new clues and directions for exploring the mechanism of the impact of DTIW on muscle function and health and also provides new evidence and suggestions for adults to adjust their water intake reasonably.

Health-related factors and dysregulation of epigenetic related genes in metabolic syndrome trigger finger patients and smoker trigger finger patients: preliminary analysis of patient-derived sample

PURPOSE

To investigate the health-related factors and analyze the expression of epigenetic related genes and inflammatory genes in metabolic syndrome Trigger Finger (TF) and smoker TF.

METHODS

Samples from patients' fingers with symptomatic TF were collected. There were seven groups: healthy control group, carpal tunnel syndrome (as a control for gene expression analysis), TF, diabetic TF, hypertensive TF, dyslipidemic TF and smoker TF. The expression levels of epigenetic related genes and inflammatory genes in metabolic syndrome TF and smoker TF were evaluated by the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaires, disability of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) and numeric pain rating scale were given to the participants to fill out.

RESULTS

There was a significant increase in hand dysfunction in the metabolic TF groups and smoker group compared to the TF group (p < 0.0001). The stress levels of the smoker TF group and TF with hypertension group were significantly increased compared with those in the TF group (p < 0.03) and (p < 0.021), respectively. On the other hand, there was a significant increase in the COL-I, COL-II and TNF-α gene expression of the metabolic TF groups and smoker group (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Health-related factors in the TF tendons was highly associated with the level of inflammation and genetic alteration in TF metabolic syndromes and smoker TF patients. Therefore, further investigation is required to examine the combination of occupational therapy, gene expression, and health-related factors as a promising method of managing TF.

Associations of handgrip weakness and asymmetry with new-onset stroke in Chinese middle-aged and older adults: a cohort study

Background

Weak handgrip strength (HGS) has been linked to adverse health outcomes including stroke. However, the joint associations of HGS weakness and asymmetry between limbs with stroke incidence remain underexplored.

Methods

This cohort study analyzed data of participants aged ≥45 years from three waves (2011, 2013, and 2015) of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Weak HGS was defined according to the recommendation of European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People. Asymmetric HGS was defined if the HGS ratio of both hands was over 1.1 or below 0.9. New-onset stroke was confirmed through self-report of physician's diagnosis.

Results

A total of 10,966 participants without stroke at baseline were included in the analysis. During the 4 years follow-up, there were 262 (2.39%) new-onset stroke cases. Compared to individuals with non-weak and symmetric HGS, those with HGS asymmetry alone and weakness alone were associated with hazards of 1.09 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.80-1.48) and 1.27 (95%CI: 0.86-1.88) for new-onset stroke, respectively, while co-occurrence of both HGS asymmetry and weakness was associated with 1.80 (95%CI: 1.24-2.60) greater hazard for new-onset stroke after controlling for confounders. Such associations were consistent in older adults aged ≥60 years, but not in those aged<60 years.

Conclusion

Individuals with both weak and asymmetric HGS tended to have greater risk of new-onset stroke, compared to those with normal HGS, or with either weak or asymmetric HGS alone. Our finding suggested that examining HGS asymmetry alongside weakness may help to improve the risk-stratification and target prevention of stroke, particularly in the older population.

Handgrip Strength Is Associated with Specific Aspects of Vascular Function in Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a disorder associated with an increased risk for the development of diabetes mellitus and its complications. Lower isometric handgrip strength (HGS) is associated with an increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases. However, the association between HGS and arterial stiffness parameters, which are considered the predictors of morbidity and mortality in individuals with MetS, is not well defined.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between HGS and HGS asymmetry on components of vascular function in adults with MetS.

METHODS

We measured handgrip strength normalized to bodyweight (HGS/kg), HGS asymmetry, body composition, blood glucose, lipid profile, blood pressure, pulse wave velocity (PWV), reflection coefficient (RC), augmentation index @75 bpm (AIx@75) and peripheral vascular resistance (PVR) in 55 adults with a diagnosis of MetS between 25 and 54 years old.

RESULTS

Mean age was 43.1 ± 7.0 years, 56.3% were females. HGS/kg was negatively correlated with AIx@75 (r = -0.440), p < 0.05, but these associations were not significant after adjusting for age and sex. However, when interaction effects between sex, HGS/kg and age were examined, we observed an inverse relationship between HGS/kg and AIx@75 in the older adults in the sample, whereas in the younger adults, a weak direct association was found. We also found a significant association between HGS asymmetry and PVR (beta = 30, 95% CI = 7.02; 54.2; p <0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that in people with MetS, maintaining muscle strength may have an increasingly important role in older age in the attenuation of age-related increases in AIx@75-a marker of vascular stiffness-and that a higher HGS asymmetry could be associated with a greater vascular resistance.

Triglyceride glucose-body mass index and hypertension risk in iranian adults: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

Insulin resistance (IR) and obesity are risk factors for hypertension; triglyceride-glucose (TyG) is known as a surrogate for IR. The present study investigated the association between the triglyceride-glucose body mass index (TyG-BMI) index and the risk of hypertension in Iranian adults.

METHODS

This study was conducted on a sample of 8,610 participants from the baseline phase of the Ravansar non- communicable diseases (RaNCD) in Iran. A logistic regression model was used to evaluate the relationship between TyG-BMI and hypertension. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was conducted to estimate the predictive power of TyG-BMI for hypertension.

RESULTS

A total of 4176 men and 4434 women with an average age of 46.74 years were examined. The anthropometric indices were significantly higher in hypertensive than normotensive subjects (P < 0.001). The level of physical activity was significantly higher in the bottom quartiles (P < 0.001). The odds of hypertension in the highest quartile and 3.10 (95% CI: 2.28, 4.16) times significantly higher than the bottom quartile of the TyG-BMI index. The discriminating ability of TyG-BMI to predict blood pressure was 61% (AUC: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.57, 0.63), and higher than BMI and TyG.

CONCLUSION

The TyG-BMI index is associated with an increase in the odds of hypertension. Therefore, the TyG-BMI index can be a new clinical index for early diagnosis of hypertension. Lifestyle modifications such as weight control through physical activity and a healthy diet can help improve IR and prevent hypertension.

Association of handgrip strength with new-onset CKD in Korean adults according to gender

Introduction

Handgrip strength (HGS) is an indicator of many diseases such as pneumonia, cardiovascular disease and cancer. HGS can also predict renal function in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, but the value of HGS as a predictor of new-onset CKD is unknown.

Methods

173,195 subjects were recruited from a nationwide cohort and were followed for 4.1  years. After exclusions, 35,757 participants remained in the final study, and CKD developed in 1063 individuals during the follow-up period. Lifestyle, anthropometric and laboratory data were evaluated in relation to the risk of CKD.

Results

The participants were subdivided into quartiles according to relative handgrip strength (RGS). Multivariate Cox regression demonstrated that RGS was inversely associated with incident CKD. Compared with the lowest quartile, the hazard ratios (HRs) [95% confidence intervals (CIs)] for incident CKD for the highest quartile (Q4) was 0.55 (0.34-0.88) after adjusting for covariates in men and 0.51 (0.31-0.85) in women. The incidence of CKD decreased as RGS increased. These negative associations were more significant in men than in women. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that baseline RGS had predictive power for new-onset CKD. Area under the curve (AUC) (95% CIs) was 0.739 (0.707-0.770) in men and 0.765 (0.729-0.801) in women.

Conclusion

This is the novel study demonstrating that RGS is associated with incident CKD in both men and women. The relationship between RGS and incident CKD is more significant in women than in men. RGS can be used in clinical practice to evaluate renal prognosis. Regular measurement of handgrip strength is essential to CKD detection.

Association between composite dietary antioxidant index and handgrip strength in American adults: Data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2011-2014)

Background

The Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI), a composite score of multiple dietary antioxidants (including vitamin A, C, and E, selenium, zinc, and carotenoids), represents an individual’s comprehensive dietary antioxidant intake profile. CDAI was developed based on its combined effect on pro-inflammatory markers Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory effects of Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), which are associated with many health outcomes, including depression, all-cause mortality, colorectal cancer, etc. Handgrip strength is used as a simple measure of muscle strength, not only is it highly correlated with overall muscle strength, but also serves as a diagnostic tool for many adverse health outcomes, including sarcopenia and frailty syndromes.

Purpose

The association between CDAI and Handgrip strength (HGS) is currently unclear. This study investigated the association between CDAI (including its components) and HGS in 6,019 American adults.

Method

The research data were selected from the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES), and a total of 6,019 American adults were screened and included. A weighted generalized linear regression model was used to evaluate CDAI (including its components) and HGS.

Results

(1) CDAI was significantly positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.009, 0.005∼0.013, P &lt; 0.001), and the trend test showed that compared with the lowest quartile of CDAI, the highest quartile of CDAI was positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.084, 0.042∼0.126, P = 0.002) and significant in trend test (P for trend &lt; 0.0100). Gender subgroup analysis showed that male CDAI was significantly positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.015, 0.007∼0.023, P = 0.002), and the trend test showed that compared with the lowest quartile of CDAI, the highest quartile of CDAI was positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.131, 0.049∼0.213, P = 0.006) and the trend test was significant (P for trend &lt; 0.0100). There was no correlation between female CDAI and HGS, and the trend test was not statistically significant (P &gt; 0.05). (2) The intake of dietary vitamin E, Zinc and Selenium showed a significant positive correlation with HGS (β = 0.004, 0.002∼0.007, P = 0.006; β = 0.007, 0.004∼0.009, P &lt; 0.001; β = 0.001, 0.001∼0.001, P &lt; 0.001), vitamin A, vitamin C and carotenoid were significantly associated with HGS in the Crude Model, but this significant association disappeared in the complete model with the increase of control variables. Gender subgroup analysis showed that in model 3, male dietary intake levels of vitamin E, Zinc, and Selenium were significantly positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.005, 0.002∼0.009, P = 0.011; β = 0.007, 0.004∼0.011, P = 0.001; β = 0.001, 0.001∼0.001, P = 0.004), the rest of the indicators had no significant correlation with HGS. Among the female subjects, dietary zinc intake was significantly positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.005, 0.001∼0.008, P = 0.008), and there was no significant correlation between other indicators and HGS (P &gt; 0.05).

Conclusion

There was an association between the CDAI and HGS, but there was a gender difference, and there was an association between the CDAI and HGS in male, but the association was not significant in female. Intake of the dietary antioxidants vitamin E, selenium, and zinc was associated with HGS in male, but only zinc was associated with HGS among dietary antioxidants in female.

Does an Association among Sarcopenia and Metabolic Risk Factors Exist in People Older Than 65 Years? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

Sarcopenia is defined as the generalized and progressive loss of skeletal muscle strength and mass that may be affected by metabolic factors, although this relationship has been poorly studied. The aim of this review and meta-analysis was to analyze the relationship among the different metabolic risk factors and sarcopenia in people older than 65 years. Following the PRISMA 2020 guide, we searched for articles that studied the relationship among sarcopenia and metabolic risk factors in adults over 65 years of age, published between 2012 and 2022 in four databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Plus, and CINAHL. A total of 370 articles were identified in the initial search, of which 13 articles were selected for inclusion in this review. It was observed that metabolic risk factors such as Body Mass Index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, or triglycerides had a significant association with sarcopenia. There is evidence of the association of different metabolic risk factors with sarcopenia in adults over 65 years of age, so it is necessary to carry out studies that investigate different strategies that reduce the appearance of sarcopenia, and with it, the incidence of metabolic diseases.

Handgrip strength in older adults with chronic diseases from 27 European countries and Israel

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Understanding the association of deconditioned strength with the most prevalent chronic diseases in older adults and inferring possible interventional strategies is of utmost importance. We aimed to investigate the association between handgrip strength and chronic diseases in a large representative European population of adults over the age of 50 years.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Individuals aged 50 or older residing in 27 European countries and Israel participated in this cross-sectional study. Data on prior or current chronic disease and handgrip strength were retrieved from the 7th wave of Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). We tested associations using binary logistic regression adjusted for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Based on data from 73,463 participants, the examined diseases showed a negative association with handgrip strength in the fully adjusted model. Participants from the highest tertile of handgrip strength had particularly lower odds for Parkinson ((Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.42 [95% Confidence Interval = 0.32-0.56])), stroke (AOR = 0.51 [95% Confidence Interval = 0.44-0.59], and emotional disorders ((Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.51 [95% Confidence Interval = 0.45-0.58])) compared with participants with the lowest level of handgrip strength in the fully adjusted model.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a negative association between handgrip strength and a wide range of chronic diseases. Evaluating handgrip strength in this population may provide a valuable clinical measure and a simple preventive strategy in relation to these diseases. The present findings support the use of resistance training for the prevention of specific chronic conditions, particularly Parkinson, stroke and emotional disorders.

Mechanism underlying vascular remodeling in relation to circulating CD34-positive cells among older Japanese men

Development of structural atherosclerosis, an established cardiovascular risk factor, requires hematopoietic stem cells known as CD34-positive cells. However, an inverse association between circulating CD34-positive cell count and cardiovascular disease has been reported. These studies evoke a contradiction: characteristics associated with a low risk of developing structural atherosclerosis are also associated with a high risk of cardiovascular disease. To clarify the mechanisms underlying vascular remodeling, we conducted several epidemiological studies of Japanese men aged 60 to 69 years who participated in annual health check-ups. The present study summarizes those epidemiological studies and adds some discussion. From the perspective of endothelial repair activity, there are significant differences between functional versus structural atherosclerosis. Aggressive endothelial repair increases both functional and structural atherosclerosis. Deficient endothelial repair related to a shortage of CD34-positive cells due to consumption furthers functional atherosclerosis but not structural atherosclerosis. Therefore, the lack of structural atherosclerosis does not always reflect a favorable condition for the endothelium. Although further investigation is necessary, the present study suggests that higher endothelial repair activity that leads to structural atherosclerosis might have a beneficial effect on vascular health among older men.

Associations of Relative Handgrip Strength and Aerobic and Strength Exercises with Metabolic Syndrome Prevalence

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to investigate associations of relative handgrip strength and participation in aerobic and strength exercises with metabolic syndrome prevalence. Moreover, level of handgrip strength, exercise frequency, and types of participation in aerobic and strength exercises associated with reductions in metabolic syndrome prevalence were explored.

METHODS

This study relied on data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2018, specifically data on handgrip strength level, aerobic and strength exercise levels, and metabolic syndrome prevalence. Aerobic exercise level was categorized as either moderate physical activity (>150 min/week) or vigorous physical activity (>75 min/week) or not engaging in those levels of exercise. Frequency of strength exercise was also recorded. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

A total 4836 adults were included in this study. Greater relative handgrip strength in both female and male adults was significantly associated with reduced metabolic syndrome prevalence. Levels of aerobic and strength exercise participation were higher in adults with greater relative handgrip strength. Aerobic and strength exercise participation was significantly associated with decreased metabolic syndrome prevalence in males, but the association was not significant in females.

CONCLUSIONS

The relative handgrip strength may instead be a marker of lower metabolic syndrome risk, and an increased participation in aerobic and strength exercise helps to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome. Suggested exercises for female adults include light aerobic exercise such as walking and strength exercise including weight-bearing exercise and stair climbing.

Relative Handgrip Strength and Incidence of Hypertension: A Case-Cohort Study From Ravansar Non-Communicable Diseases Cohort

BACKGROUND

The present study assessed the association between relative handgrip strength (RHGS) and hypertension incidence in healthy adults.

METHODS

We performed a case-cohort study on 3784 participants from Ravansar Non-Communicable Diseases cohort study. The absolute HGS was measured using a digital dynamometer. Hypertension was defined as systolic/diastolic blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg and/or use of antihypertensive medications. Cox regression analysis was utilized to estimate hazard ratios of incident hypertension events with RHGS.

RESULTS

Physical activity was significantly higher in the participants with hypertension compared with nonhypertensive participants (P &lt; .001). High-level physical activity in the subjects with lower, middle, and upper RHGS was 19.6%, 33.1%, and 47.3%, respectively (P &lt; .001). RHGS was significantly higher in individuals with greater skeletal muscle mass (P &lt; .001). The men and women with the upper RHGS, had an 80% (hazard ratio: 0.2; 95% confidence interval, 0.1-0.3) and 70% (hazard ratio: 0.3; 95% confidence interval, 0.1-1.2), were lower risk of hypertension compared with those with the lower RHGS, respectively. This association remains significant after adjustment for confounding factors in men.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated that middle and upper levels of RHGS were associated with a lower risk of hypertension incidence. RHGS may be a protective factor for hypertension. We suggested muscle strengthening exercises.

Association Between Grip Strength and Cognitive Function in US Older Adults of NHANES 2011–2014

Background: The relationship between grip strength and cognitive function remains no consensus in the older adults. Objective: To investigate the association of grip strength with cognitive function and cognitive performance in different domains. Methods: Participants of the present cross-sectional study were from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014. Grip strength was measured by grip dynamometer, and combined handgrip strength was the sum of the largest reading from each hand. Four cognitive domains (immediate and delayed memory, language, and attention) were assessed by a set of neuropsychological tests. The subjective cognitive decline was determined via self-report. Results: Among 2,618 participants, combined grip strength was positively associated with scores on global cognitive function and each cognitive domain after controlling for demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and history of disease. In addition, compared to those with grip strength <  46.7 kg, participants with grip strength≥75.3 kg had odds ratios of 0.36 (95% CI: 0.21 to 0.63) for poor global cognitive function, 0.66 (95% CI: 0.38 to 1.13) for poor immediate memory, 0.53 (95% CI: 0.30 to 0.93) for poor delayed memory, 0.48 (95% CI: 0.27 to 0.86) for poor language function, 0.20 (95% CI: 0.11 to 0.35) for poor attention, and 0.36 (95% CI: 0.18 to 0.73) for subjective cognitive decline in fully adjusted model. Conclusion: Older adults with higher grip strength were significantly associated with better performance on cognition function included global and various domains such as memory, language, attention, and subjective cognitive decline.

Relative Handgrip Strength is Inversely Associated with Hypertension in Consideration of Visceral Adipose Dysfunction: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study in Korea

This study investigated the associations of relative handgrip strength (rHGS) and hypertension. Individual differences in visceral adipose dysfunction (VAD) were evaluated to verify whether rHGS was associated with a reduction in the risk of hypertension, even in individuals with VAD. We included 77,991 participants (50,616 women) from nationwide cohorts in Korea. Participants were categorized into three groups based on sex-specific tertiles of rHGS (Low, Mid, and High). The visceral adiposity index (VAI) was used to evaluate VAD. The multiple logistic regression model was used to assess the risk of hypertension. High rHGS is associated with reduction of hypertension risk in 38 and 26% of men and women, respectively, although rHGS was significantly low in women compared to men. The benefit of rHGS was observed from middle-aged to older participants in both sexes. High rHGS is associated with risk reduction for hypertension in both VAD and non-VAD groups. In the VAD group, compared to Low rHGS, High rHGS was associated with 32 and 22% risk reductions in hypertension in men and women, respectively, and these associations remained significant even when classified according to age, such as in middle-aged and older subgroups. Therefore, the present study suggests that high levels of rHGS are significantly associated with a reduced risk of hypertension even in participants with VAD. Thus, maintaining a higher level of rHGS may be associated with protective benefits against hypertension.

Factors Associated with Handgrip Strength Among Older Adults in Malaysia

Purpose

Handgrip strength (HGS) is indicative of overall physical health among older adults. A decrease in HGS may be associated with an increased risk of disease. The aim of this study is to determine the factors associated with HGS among older adults in Malaysia.

Patients and Methods

One thousand two hundred four (1204) participants from urban and rural areas in Selangor state, Malaysia, were recruited. Sociodemographic and health-related conditions were gathered through a comprehensive face-to-face interview, followed by HGS assessments by a handgrip dynamometer. Subsequently, multiple linear regression was used to test the main association with the HGS.

Results

A total of 691 participants (57.4%) were male, and 513 (42.6%) were female. Males had a mean HGS of 30.0 (SD 7.53) kg, and females had a mean HGS of 19.4 (SD 5.28) kg. Males' handgrip strength was significantly reduced with increasing age, physically inactive, and diabetes (all at the level p<0.001) after adjusting for social-demographic characteristics and health-related variables. Meanwhile, for females, the HGS was significantly decreased with age (p<0.001), physically inactive (p<0.001) and hypertension (p=0.03). However, female HGS was positively related to BMI (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The study contributed to a better understanding of factors associated with HGS, and thus, the HGS is recommended as a section in the health evaluation among high-risk older adults as the strategy of disease control and prevention.

Association of Muscle Strength with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Korean Adults

Sarcopenia is known to be associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, few studies have revealed the association between muscle strength and prevalence of NAFLD. We investigated the association by using relative handgrip strength in a nationwide cross-sectional survey. The participants were recruited from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (KNHANES). A total of 27,531 subjects from the KNHANES were selected in our study. We used normalized handgrip strength, which is called relative handgrip strength. The index was defined as handgrip strength divided by BMI. These subjects were divided into quartile groups according to relative handgrip strength. NAFLD was defined as hepatic steatosis index >36. Multinomial logistic regression was analysed to investigate the association between relative handgrip strength with prevalence of NAFLD. The mean age of study population was 45.8 ± 0.3 in men, and 48.3 ± 0.2 in women. The proportion of males was 37.5%. In multiple linear regression, relative handgrip strength was inversely associated with HSI index (Standardized β = −0.70; standard error (SE), 0.08; p < 0.001 in men, Standardized β = −0.94; standard error (SE), 0.07; p < 0.001 in women). According to the logistic regression model, the prevalence of NAFLD decreased with quartile 4 groups in relative handgrip strength, compared with quartile 1 groups (OR 0.42 [0.32–0.55] in men; OR 0.30 [0.22–0.40] in women). Relative handgrip strength, used as a biomarker of sarcopenia, is independently inversely associated with NAFLD.

Metabolic syndrome and its association with components of sarcopenia in older community-dwelling Chinese

Aging and obesity contribute to muscle dysfunction. This study aimed to determine the cross-sectional associations between components of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and sarcopenia in 251 older community-dwelling Chinese. The total fat-free mass was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, muscle strength (handgrip strength) by a handheld dynamometer, physical performance by 4-meter walk, 5-time chair stand test, and the short physical performance battery (SPPB). MetS was defined using the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. The participants with MetS had a higher appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) and relative ASM (RASM). The males with MetS had higher handgrip strength, and the females with MetS had higher SPPB scores. After adjusting for age and body mass index, the participants with an increased waist circumference had a higher ASM, and those with increased diastolic blood pressure (DBP) also had higher handgrip strength. The males with elevated fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels had a lower gait speed. Components of MetS, such as DPB and FBG, were associated with muscle strength and physical performance in older adults. These results suggest that muscle strength and function should be considered in treating older adults with MetS.

Association between relative handgrip strength and hypertension in Chinese adults: An analysis of four successive national surveys with 712,442 individuals (2000-2014)

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to identify the 15-year trends of handgrip strength-to-weight (relative HS) and assess the association between relative HS and hypertension among Chinese adults aged 20-69.

METHODS

Using a complex, stratified, multistage probability cluster sampling, we analyzed data collected from 712,442 adults aged 20-69 years in four successive national surveys (2000-2014). We used a handheld dynamometer to measure strength and divided by body weight to calculate the relative HS. Blood pressure was recorded with a sphygmomanometer and hypertension was defined as resting systolic blood pressure at least 140 mmHg or diastolic at least 90 mmHg. The Mann-Kendall trend test examined trends in relative HS over time. We also computed odd ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) by tertile of relative HS and examined the association between relative HS and hypertension.

RESULTS

The relative HS level decreased with the increase of age in both male and females (p trend <0.001). In each of four surveys, one interquartile decrease in relative HS was associated with an increased risk of hypertension by 44% (OR = 1.44, 95%CI: 1.40-1.47), 58% (OR = 1.58, 95%CI: 1.54-1.62), 48% (OR = 1.48, 95%CI: 1.45-1.52), 43% (OR = 1.43, 95%CI: 1.40-1.47), respectively.

CONCLUSION

In the Chinese adult population, the relative HS level decreased from 2000 to 2014 across all ages in both males and females. A lower relative HS was associated with a higher risk of hypertension. The findings provided evidence for the association between muscle strength and hypertension in large-scaled population.

Normalized handgrip strength and future risk of hypertension: findings from a prospective cohort study

Previous reports of an association between handgrip strength (HGS) and the risk of hypertension have utilized cross-sectional designs. We aimed to assess the prospective association between HGS and hypertension risk in a general population. Handgrip strength was assessed at baseline in 463 Finnish men and women aged 61-73 years. Handgrip strength was normalized (HGS/body weight^2/3). After 16 years median follow-up, 110 hypertension cases occurred. Comparing the extreme tertiles of normalized HGS, the multivariable adjusted hazard ratio (95% CI) for hypertension was 0.63 (0.38-1.04). Previous evidence of associations may have been driven by study design limitations such as lack of temporality.

The Association of Stage 1 Hypertension, Defined by the 2017 ACC/AHA Guidelines, With Cardiovascular Events Among Rural Women in Liaoning Province, China

Background: The recent American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guidelines redefined blood pressure levels 130-139/80-89 mmHg as stage 1 hypertension. However, the association of stage 1 hypertension with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and its age-specific differences among the rural women in Liaoning province remains unclear. It needs to be quantified in considering guideline adoption in China.

Methods: In total, 19,374 women aged ≥35 years with complete data and no cardiovascular disease at baseline were followed in a rural community-based prospective cohort study of Liaoning province, China. Follow-up for the new cases of CVD was conducted from the end of the baseline survey to the end of the third follow-up survey (January 1, 2008–December 31, 2017). Adjusted Cox proportional hazards models were applied to estimate the Hazard Ratios (HR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) with the normal blood pressure as a reference.

Results: During the median follow-up period of 12.5 years, 1,419 subjects suffered all-cause death, 748 developed CVD, 1,224 participants suffered stroke and 241 had Myocardial Infarction (MI). Compared with normal BP, Stage 1 hypertension had a HR (95% CI) of 1.694 (1.202–2.387) in CVD mortality, 1.575 (1.244–1.994) in the incidence of stroke. The results obtained that the risk of CVD mortality and incidence of stroke was significantly associated with stage 1 hypertension in rural women aged ≥45 years after adjusting for other potential factors. However, in participants aged 35–44 years, stage 1 hypertension was not associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Conclusions: The newly defined stage 1 hypertension is associated with an increased risk of CVD mortality and also incidence of stroke in the rural women aged ≥45 years population of Liaoning province. This study can be a good reference for health policy makers and clinicians workers to make evidence-based decisions toward lowering burden of cardiovascular disease more efficient, timely measures on prevention and control of stage 1 hypertension in China.

Determination of hand grip strength and its correlates during pregnancy: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy results in many changes, including reduced hand grip strength (HGS). However, good HGS is required for physical functions such as carrying and breastfeeding the baby after birth. The aim of this study was to determine the factors that may predict HGS during pregnancy.

METHODS

The study was a cross-sectional study approved by the Research Ethics Committees of Kano State Ministry of Health and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano, north-west, Nigeria. Pregnant women at the designated hospitals were included in the study if they had no serious comorbidities or any known neurological condition that affects the hands and the neck. Demographic characteristics and independent (predictor) variables (age, weight, height, BMI, maternity leave status, number of full-term deliveries, number of preterm deliveries, number of live births, number of abortuses, gravidity, trimester, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, inter arm systolic BP difference [IASBP], inter arm diastolic BP difference [IADBP], and heart rate) of each of the participants were recorded by experienced therapists. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient and standard multiple regression.

RESULT

One hundred and sixty-one pregnant women with mean age, 25.04 ± 4.83 years participated in the study. In the dominant hand, 120 participants (74.5%) had weak grip strength. In the non-dominant hand, 135 participants (83.9%) had weak grip strength. For the dominant hand, the total variance explained by the whole model was significant, 28.5%, F(11, 161) = 1.187, R2 = 0.081, p = 0.300 . In the final model, none of the variables significantly predicted HGS. However, systolic blood pressure contributed to the model more than any other variable (Beta = -0.155). For the non-dominant hand, the total variance explained by the whole model was not significant, 33.1%, F(11, 161) = 1.675, R2 = 0.111, p = 0.089 . In the final model, only systolic blood pressure (Beta = -0.254, p = 0.023) significantly predicted hand grip strength.

CONCLUSION

Cardiovascular events or changes during pregnancy (such as change in systolic blood pressure) may be related to HGS in pregnant women. It is therefore, important for clinicians to pay attention to this, in planning rehabilitation strategies for pregnant women.

Association Between Muscle Strength and Cystatin C-Based Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Among Middle-Aged and Elderly Population: Findings Based on the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), 2015

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are prone to muscle strength degeneration. However, the relationship between mild-to-moderate renal insufficiency and low muscle strength remains unclear. As cystatin C is not subject to muscular conditions and is a sensitive serum marker in preclinical renal disease, we aimed to investigate the association between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) based on cystatin C and muscle strength in the Chinese population.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study enrolling 12,398 Chinese participants aged above 45 years (5762 men and 6636 women) from the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Handgrip strength (HGS) was used to assess muscle strength. Locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (LOWESS) curves were employed to visualize the relationships between eGFR and HGS. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to analyze the correlation between kidney function and low muscle strength.

Results

Significant differences in HGS by CKD stage were observed in both sexes after adjusting for age and body mass index. LOWESS curves demonstrated concomitant decreases in HGS and kidney function at eGFR levels below 120 mL/min/1.73 m² in both sexes. According to multivariate logistic regression, participants with CKD stages 2 (odds ratio [OR]: 1.256, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.120–1.409), 3 (OR: 2.725, 95% CI: 2.2585–3.288), and 4–5 (OR: 3.069, 95% CI 1.747–5.392) had higher risk of low muscle strength than those who were normal or had CKD stage 1 after adjusting for demographic and clinical variables.

Conclusion

Our study illustrated that CKD stage was independently associated with low muscle strength in Chinese middle-aged and elderly populations.

Handgrip strength as a predictor of incident hypertension in the middle-aged and older population: The TCLSIH cohort study

OBJECTIVES

The independent role of muscular strength in the prevention of chronic disease is increasingly being recognized. However, no cohort study has assessed the relationship between handgrip strength and the incidence of hypertension among the middle-aged and older population. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to investigate whether handgrip strength is related to incident hypertension among people aged 40 years and over.

STUDY DESIGN

This prospective cohort study (n = 8,480) was performed between 2013 and 2019 as part of the Tianjin Chronic Low-grade Systemic Inflammation and Health (TCLSIH) Cohort Study, Tianjin, China.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Participants without baseline hypertension were followed up for ~6 years (median 4.0 years). Hypertension was defined according to the JNC7 criteria. Handgrip strength was measured using a hydraulic handheld dynamometer. Adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess the relationships between weight-adjusted handgrip strength and the risk of incident hypertension.

RESULTS

The incidence rate of hypertension per 1000 person-years was 70. The fully adjusted hazards ratios (95% confidence interval) of the incidence of hypertension for increasing quartiles of weight-adjusted handgrip strength were: 1.00(reference), 0.84 (0.75-0.95), 0.78 (0.69-0.88), and 0.66 (0.58-0.75) (P for trend<0.0001). Moreover, the adjusted hazards ratio (95% confidence interval) of incident hypertension for per unit increase in weight-adjusted handgrip strength was 0.17 (0.10-0.27) (P<0.0001). Similar results were observed in males and females.

CONCLUSIONS

The present cohort study is the first to find that high weight-adjusted handgrip strength, but not absolute handgrip strength, is significantly and independently related to low risk of incident hypertension among the middle-aged and older population.

Associations between handgrip strength and hypertension in relation to circulating CD34-positive cell levels among Japanese older men: a cross-sectional study

Background

A positive association between handgrip strength and blood pressure has been reported. Since these factors are linked to the condition of the endothelium, the activity of endothelial repair might influence the association between handgrip strength and hypertension.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 257 Japanese men aged 60–69 years who underwent an annual health checkup. As individuals with high level of circulating CD34-positive cells might show active endothelial repair, which plays an important role in vascular homeostasis, participants were stratified by circulating CD34-positive cell levels, using the median value of this population (0.96 cells/μL) as the cutoff.

Results

Independent of known cardiovascular risk factors, for participants with a high CD34-positive cell, handgrip strength is significantly positively associated with hypertension (odds ratio and 95% confidence interval of hypertension for 1 standard deviation increment of handgrip strength were 1.85 (1.19, 2.88) but not for participants with a low CD34-positive cell (0.91 (0.61, 1.37)).

Conclusion

The positive association between handgrip strength and hypertension is limited to high CD34-positive cells. This result may help clarify the role of vascular homeostasis in maintaining muscle strength.

Clinical determinants of low handgrip strength and its decline in the oldest old: the Leiden 85-plus Study

Background

Age-related decline in muscle strength, dynapenia, is linked to serious adverse health outcomes. Evidence on the determinants of muscle strength decline in the oldest old is lacking.

Aims

To identify clinical variables associated with handgrip strength and its change over a 4-year period in an oldest old cohort.

Methods

We included 555 participants from the Leiden 85-plus Study, a prospective population-based study of 85-year-old inhabitants of Leiden, the Netherlands. Handgrip strength was assessed at age 85 and 89 years. Anthropometry, mental status, functional performance, and biochemical variables were obtained at baselines. Significant univariates were included into multivariable regression models to extract the final predictive variables.

Results

Handgrip strength for men and women at age 85 years was 30.6 kg (SD 8.2) and 18.7 kg (SD, 5.5), respectively. In the cross-sectional analysis, body height and weight were positively associated with handgrip strength in both genders. Higher functional performance was associated with stronger handgrip strength in women. Mean absolute handgrip strength decline over 4 years was greater for men than women (− 6.1 kg (SD, 5.2) vs. − 3.4 kg (SD, 4.1), p < 0.001). Men with better baseline cognitive functioning had smaller decline in handgrip strength.

Conclusions

This study further strengthens evidence linking functional and cognitive performances to muscle strength in the oldest old. Future research is needed to ascertain causality and determine if these markers represent potential targets for intervention.

Home-Measured Blood Pressure Is Associated with Handgrip Strength in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: The KAMOGAWA-HBP Study

The association between blood pressure measured at home and handgrip strength in patients with diabetes has not been investigated. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to assess this association among patients with type 2 diabetes. In this cross-sectional study, 157 patients with type 2 diabetes underwent muscle tests and morning and evening blood-pressure measurements at home in triplicate for 14 consecutive days throughout the study period. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were conducted to analyze the relationship between home blood-pressure parameters and handgrip strength. The average age and hemoglobin A1c of the patients were 70.5 years and 7.1%, respectively. Morning diastolic blood pressure of [β (95% confidence interval; CI): 0.20 (0.03, 0.37)] was associated with handgrip strength in men, while morning systolic blood pressure of [-0.09 (-0.15, -0.04)], morning pulse pressure of [-0.14 (-0.21, -0.08)], and evening pulse pressure of [-0.12 (-0.19, -0.04)] were associated with handgrip strength in women. Home-measured blood pressure was associated with handgrip strength. Sex differences were found in the relationship between home blood-pressure parameters and handgrip strength.

Patterns of Nutrient Intake in Relation to Sarcopenia and Its Components

Background: Despite the associations between individual nutrients and sarcopenia, we are aware of no information about the link between patterns of nutrient intake and odds of sarcopenia and its components. The present study aimed to examine the association between nutrient-based dietary patterns and sarcopenia and its components among the Iranian adult population. Methods: In this population-based, cross-sectional study, we enrolled 300 elderly adults (150 men and 150 women) aged ≥55 years by using a cluster random sampling method. Dietary intakes of the study population were assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Principal component analysis was conducted to derive nutrient patterns based on a daily intake of 33 nutrients. Muscle mass, muscle strength, and gait speed were measured according to standard methods. Sarcopenia and its components were defined based on the European Working Group on Sarcopenia. Results: Three major nutrient-based dietary patterns were identified: (1) the "pro-vit pattern" that was high in pantothenic (B5), cobalamin (B12), calcium, protein, phosphor, riboflavin (B2), zinc, cholesterol, saturated fat, folate, niacin (B3), selenium, vitamin D, vitamin K, and vitamin A; (2) the "anti-inflammatory" pattern, which was rich in polyunsaturated fat, monounsaturated fat, copper, vitamin E, omega-3, magnesium, iron, pyridoxine (B6), sodium, and caffeine; and (3) the "carbo-vit" patternm which is characterized by high intake of fructose, glucose, dietary fiber, biotin, potassium, thiamin (B1), vitamin C, and chromium. After adjusting for confounders, subjects in the top tertile of the anti-inflammatory pattern had lower odds of sarcopenia (OR 0.25; 95% CI 0.10-0.63) and low muscle strength (OR: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.22-0.96) than those in the bottom tertile. Greater adherence to the carbo-vit pattern was inversely associated with the odds of low gait speed (OR: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.235-0.93). Conclusion: Major nutrient-based dietary patterns were significantly associated with sarcopenia and its components. Further studies are required to confirm our findings.

Association between serum sodium level within normal range and handgrip strength in relation to hypertension status: a cross-sectional study

Serum sodium concentration within the normal range could act as an indicator of age-related changes such as decrease in muscle strength and impairment of capillary function. Since endothelial injury stimulates endothelial repair by enhancing CD34-positive cell production, the level of serum sodium may be inversely associated with that of circulating CD34-positive cells, thus indicating the degree of age-related endothelial injury. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 246 elderly Japanese men aged 60–69 years. Subjects were stratified by hypertension status because hypertension should act as a strong confounding factor for the analyses performed in this study. Serum sodium concentration was positively associated with handgrip strength in non-hypertensive subjects [standardized parameter estimate (β) = 0.29; p = 0.003], but not for hypertensive subjects (β = 0.01; p = 0.878), while it was inversely associated with circulating CD34-positive cell levels in non-hypertensive subjects [simple correlation coefficient (r) = − 0.28; p = 0.002] but not for hypertensive subjects (r = − 0.07; p = 0.454). For non-hypertensive elderly subjects, serum sodium concentration within the normal range is positively associated with handgrip strength and inversely associated with CD34-positive cells, thus partly indicating the degree of age-related endothelium injury. These associations could prove to be an efficient tool for clarifying the background mechanism governing the decrease in age-related muscle strength.

Consideration of body mass index (BMI) in the association between hand grip strength and hypertension: Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing (KLoSA)

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between grip strength and hypertension in the Korean population aged 65 years or older. Furthermore, individual differences in BMI were taken into account to examine whether grip strength or a relative grip strength predicted hypertension better.

METHODS

Data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing from 2006 to 2016 were assessed, and a total of 3,383 participants were analyzed in our study (Male: 1,527, Female: 1,856). Using the generalized estimating equation model, the association between grip strength and hypertension, assessed by the response to the question 'have you ever been diagnosed with hypertension from your doctor?', over the follow-up period was analyzed. The relative grip strength, calculated by dividing the mean grip strength by BMI, was also analyzed in association of hypertension.

RESULTS

Both grip strength and relative grip strength were significantly associated with hypertension in our sample. However, the results were more significant in the total sample when relative grip strength was used. In terms of grip strength, as the High group as reference: Low (Odds Ratio (OR): 1.238, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.096, 1.397), Middle Low (OR: 1.104, 95% CI: 0.990, 1.231), and Middle high (OR: 1.024, 95% CI: 0.934, 1.122). In the analysis using relative grip strength, as High group as reference: Low (OR: 1.393, 95% CI: 1.234, 1.573), Middle low (OR: 1.232, 95% CI: 1.104, 1.374), and Middle high (OR:1.104, 95% CI: 1.009, 1.209). Furthermore, the lower QIC measure in the model with relative grip strength (QIC: 25,251) compared with the one using grip strength (QIC: 25,266) indicated a better model fit in the former.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study strengthen the previous findings in regards to hand grip strength and health. Furthermore, the results of our study shines light on the necessity of considering individual differences in BMI, when using a physical measure as a study variable.

Sarcopenia is associated with hypertension in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Sarcopenia, particularly low handgrip strength has been observed and correlated in association with hypertension among the older people. However, the results reported in different studies were inconsistent. In the current study, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to reveal the significant association between sarcopenia, handgrip strength, and hypertension in older adults.

Methods

PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases were searched from inception to 15 November 2019 to retrieve the original research studies that addressed the association between sarcopenia, handgrip strength, and hypertension. All the relevant data were retrieved, analyzed, and summarized.

Results

Twelve articles met the inclusion criteria and a total of 21,301 participants were included in the meta-analysis. Eight eligible studies have reported the odd ratios (ORs) of hypertension and sarcopenia, and the ORs ranged from 0.41 to 4.38. When pooled the ORs together, the summarized OR was 1.29 [95% confidence interval (CI) =1.00–1.67]. The summarized OR for the Asian group 1.50 (95% CI = 1.35–1.67) was significantly higher than that of Caucasian group 1.08 (95% CI = 0.39–2.97). Eleven studies have provided the data on association between handgrip strength and hypertension. The overall OR and 95% CI was 0.99 (95% CI = 0.80–1.23), showing no significant association.

Conclusion

Sarcopenia was associated with hypertension, but no correlation was found between handgrip strength and hypertension in older adults.

The Relative Handgrip Strength and Risk of Cardiometabolic Disorders: A Prospective Study

Background

This study aims to investigate the association between handgrip strength (HGS) and cardiometabolic disorders (CMD), including hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, in a prospective study.

Methods

The association between HGS and CMD was examined using the data from 5,271 Chinese adult participants ≥45 years old enrolled in the CHARLS (Chinese Health and Retirement Prospective Cohort Study) during 2011-2015. Relative HGS, calculated as maximal absolute HGS from both hands divided by body mass index, was used in the primary analysis and divided into three groups according to the tertiles (T1, T2, and T3).

Results

The participants with higher relative HGS had a lower risk of hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia than those with lower HGS, although did not reach statistical significance for diabetes and hypertension in males. Participants with higher HGS had significantly lower risk of hypertension [T3 vs. T1: OR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.51-0.91, P = 0.010] and dyslipidemia (OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.51-0.83, P < 0.001) in males. For females, participants with higher HGS had significantly lower risks of dyslipidemia (OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.54-0.83, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

A consistent association was observed between higher relative HGS and lower risk of CMD. Further research is required to evaluate whether relative HGS can be a convincing predictor for the occurrence of CMD and as a target for intervention in the high-risk population.

Circulating Biomarkers of Handgrip Strength and Lung Function in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Purpose

COPD is a multisystem disease and there is a need for clinical serum markers that can assess the decline in lung and muscle function in COPD. The goal of this study was to evaluate the potential association of serum club-cell protein 16 (CC16), α-1 acid glycoprotein (AGP) and total sialic acid (TSA) with spirometry, hand-grip strength and quality of life to assess important disease outcomes.

Methods

This is a population-based cross-sectional study and data were collected from the patients at teaching hospitals of Gomal University and the University of Health Sciences in Pakistan. The study population included 1582 participants (Non-COPD; N = 788, COPD; N = 845) >55 years of age from both sexes, with data from structural interviews, clinical examinations, laboratory investigations, spirometry and hand-grip strength measurements.

Results

Serum TSA and CC16 were significant predictors of FEV₁% (p < 0.05) and hand-grip strength in advanced stages of COPD (p < 0.05 each) in both sexes. Men had higher absolute and adjusted hand-grip strength than women in all groups (p < 0.05). Hand-grip strength was significantly associated with FEV₁% in both genders (p < 0.05) with stronger effect in women (r² = 0.075). Serum HDL-C was an independent predictor of hand-grip strength and FEV₁% (p < 0.05) in both genders. Participants with extreme problem on EQ-5D parameters had more severe COPD and reduced hand-grip strength (all p values < 0.05).

Conclusion

Taken together, these studies show that the serum expressions of TSA and CC16 have correlations with spirometry and muscle decline in COPD. Further studies should be conducted to establish their efficacy in monitoring disease progression in COPD.

An Investigation of Short-Term Longitudinal Associations Between Handgrip Strength and Cardiovascular Disease Biomarkers Among Middle-Aged to Older Adults: A Project FRONTIER Study

The purpose of this study was to examine short-term longitudinal relationships between handgrip strength (HGS) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) biomarkers in middle-aged to older adults living in rural areas (N = 138). The association between HGS and CVD biomarkers was examined at baseline, with HGS as a predictor of the annual change in biomarkers, and in a parallel fashion between the annual change in HGS and CVD biomarkers over an average of 2.8 follow-up years. The results showed HGS to cross-sectionally associate with waist circumference and diastolic blood pressure at baseline, but HGS at baseline was not found to predict the annual change in any biomarker. The annual increase in HGS was significantly associated with favorable changes in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and systolic/diastolic blood pressures; yet, these associations varied by the baseline levels of biomarkers. The present findings suggest that improved muscle strength with aging is related to favorable changes in CVD biomarkers.

Health Consequences of Sarcopenic Obesity: A Narrative Review

Sarcopenia is defined as the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength or physical performance. Increased amounts of adipose tissue often accompany sarcopenia, a condition referred to as sarcopenic obesity. The prevalence of sarcopenic obesity among adults is rapidly increasing worldwide. However, the lack of a universal definition of sarcopenia limits comparisons between studies. Sarcopenia and obesity have similar pathophysiologic factors, including lifestyle behaviors, hormones, and immunological factors, all of which may synergistically affect the risk of developing a series of adverse health issues. Increasing evidence has shown that sarcopenic obesity is associated with accelerated functional decline and increased risks of cardiometabolic diseases and mortality. Therefore, the identification of sarcopenic obesity may be critical for clinicians in aging societies. In this review, we discuss the effect of sarcopenic obesity on multiple health outcomes and its role as a predictor of these outcomes based on the components of sarcopenia, including muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance.

Muscle strength is a major determinant of the blood pressure response to isometric stress testing: the Asklepios population study

AIM

Maximal handgrip strength is a strong predictor of cardiovascular mortality in economically and socioculturally diverse countries, yet the main determinants of cardiovascular response to change in afterload during handgrip are not well known. We examined the blood pressure (BP) responses during submaximal handgrip (at 25% of grip strength) and the determinants of grip strength.

METHODS

We studied 2215 participants from a population-based random sample without overt clinical disease (Asklepios Study; mean age 56.2 years). Handgrip testing was performed using a modified Jamar dynamometer with direct visual feedback. Simultaneously, a validated finger plethysmographic device measured continuous BP and heart rate.

RESULTS

During handgrip, SBP and DBP rose by, respectively, 20 ± 13 and 10 ± 6 mmHg. These changes were normally distributed and consistently higher in men. The main independent determinants of mean arterial pressure response during handgrip were: grip strength (F = 191.4; P < 0.001), baseline pulse pressure (F = 32.0; P < 0.001), height (F = 16.4; P < 0.001) and age (F = 12.8; P < 0.001). Grip strength was associated with muscle mass, better metabolic health, but also with higher baseline DBP. There was a significant graded increase in maximum pressure achieved and in the magnitude of pressure change during handgrip with increasing BP categories (P for trend <0.001).

CONCLUSION

The population BP response to handgrip is variable and its predominant determinant turned out to be grip strength itself, which should be accounted for in future analyses. Higher baseline BP, even within the normotensive range, acted as an independent and graded predictor of BP increase during handgrip.

Association of handgrip strength with the prevalence of hypertension in a Chinese Han population

Objective

Handgrip strength (HGS) exercise has been reported to reduce blood pressure in both hypertensive and normotensive patients. In this study, we evaluated the association of HGS with hypertension in a Chinese Han Population.

Methods

A total of 11,151 subjects mainly consisting of a rural population were recruited with a multi-stage sampling method in Jurong city, Jiangsu Province, China. Besides hypertension and diabetes, major chronic diseases were excluded. HGS was categorized into tertiles by age and gender. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association of HGS and hypertension with the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

From low to high tertiles of HGS, diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was significantly increased (74.52 ± 7.39, 74.70 ± 7.03, and 75.54 ± 7.01 mmHg, respectively; P_trend = 0.001), as well as in females (P_trend=0.003). The differences in DBP among the tertiles of HGS were still significant in females even after adjusting for covariates (P_trend=0.048). No significant differences in systolic blood pressure (SBP) were observed among the tertiles of HGS (P>0.05). Compared to low HGS, high HGS was significantly associated with hypertension after adjustment for age and gender (adjusted OR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.06–1.34; P =0.004). A stratified analysis showed that the significant association of high HGS and hypertension was also observed with the following factors even after adjusting for age and gender: female gender (adjusted OR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.08–1.46; P=0.004), ages of 60–69 years (adjusted OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.06–1.57; P=0.011), and married (adjusted OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.06–1.37; P=0.005). However, no significant associations were found after adjusting for age, gender, smoking status, drinking status, body mass index, physical activity level, glucose, high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglyceride (P>0.05).

Conclusion

The findings of the current study suggest that HGS was positively correlated with DBP in a rural population, and high HGS was associated with hypertension in females; however, the association may be modified by smoking status, drinking status, body mass index, physical activity, cholesterol level, and glucose level. Further utilization of HGS exercises to intervene in the development and prognosis of hypertension should be verified in the future.

Handgrip strength, chronic physical conditions and physical multimorbidity in middle-aged and older adults in six low- and middle income countries

PURPOSE

Handgrip strength provides a clinically validated marker of overall health and mortality risk. There are however, no multi-national population-based studies investigating the associations between handgrip strength, chronic physical conditions, and physical multimorbidity (i.e., ≥2 chronic conditions). We aimed to assess these associations among community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults using nationally representative data from six in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

METHODS

Cross-sectional, community-based data on individuals aged ≥50 years from the World Health Organization's Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health were analyzed. Eleven chronic physical conditions (angina, arthritis, asthma, chronic back pain, chronic lung disease, diabetes, edentulism, hearing problems, hypertension, stroke, visual impairment) were assessed. Weak handgrip strength was defined as <30 kg for men and <20 kg for women. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted.

RESULTS

The final sample included 34,129 individuals (62.4 ± 16.0 years; 52.1% female). After adjustment for potential confounders, when compared to those with no chronic physical conditions, having 1, 2, 3, and ≥4 physical chronic conditions was associated with 1.22 (95%CI = 1.08-1.37), 1.29 (95%CI = 1.11-1.50), 1.41 (95%CI = 1.18-1.68), and 1.78 (95%CI = 1.46-2.18) times higher odds for weak handgrip strength. Similar associations were observed in the analyses stratified by age and sex. There was a moderate level of between-country heterogeneity in the association between weak handgrip strength and physical multimorbidity (Higgin's I² = 67.8%) with the pooled estimate being 1.26 (95%CI = 1.06-1.50).

CONCLUSION

Weaker handgrip strength is associated with a range of chronic physical conditions and multimorbidity. Future research should seek to establish the predictive value of this inexpensive measure for clinical use.