Analysis of sarcopenia parameters and falls in hemodialysis patients: no association found in a cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION: Sarcopenia has been associated with an increased risk of falls in diverse populations. Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis (HD) have an increased prevalence of muscle weakness and wasting. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between parameters of sarcopenia and a history of falls in ESRD patients on HD. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was utilized to assess 111 participants with ESRD on HD (54 ± 15.6 years; 59.5% men). Sarcopenia was defined by low muscle strength (handgrip dynamometry) and low muscle mass (bioelectrical impedance). History of falls was self-reported. Bivariate analyses were performed, and a multivariate logistic regression model was used to assess the association between sarcopenia and falls while adjusting for confounders. RESULTS: In the multivariate analysis, sarcopenia was not independently associated with a history of falls (OR = 1.73; p = 0.40). However, advanced age (OR = 1.04 per year; p = 0.03) and a history of stroke (OR = 6.07; p = 0.05) were identified as significant independent predictors of falls. CONCLUSION: History of falls was not independently associated with muscle strength or mass in ESRD patients on HD. Future longitudinal studies are needed to investigate other factors associated with this outcome.