Arabic Translation & Validation of Strength, Ambulation, Rising from A Chair, Stair Climbing and History of Falling Scale (SARC-F)

Background: Sarcopenia, characterized by a progressive decline in muscle mass and function associated with aging, impacts around 10% of older adults worldwide and leads to heightened morbidity, increased hospitalization, and escalating healthcare costs. Early detection is crucial for timely intervention. The SARC-F questionnaire is a brief and validated screening tool utilized globally to identify individuals at risk of sarcopenia. Nevertheless, a validated Arabic version is currently unavailable. Methods: The SARC-F questionnaire was translated into Arabic employing a forward-backward translation method, followed by cultural adaptation, including the conversion of metric units. Content validity was evaluated by two domain experts using a 4-point relevance scale. Face validity was assessed through cognitive interviews conducted in a sample of 15 Arabic-speaking participants (range = 25– 40). Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s alpha in a sample of 120 adults (31.76 years (SD = 10.43, range = 20– 68)). Test-retest reliability was analyzed utilizing the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) in a sample of 86 participants over an interval of 10 to 14 days. Inter-item associations were examined using Spearman’s rank-order correlations. Results: Following an expert review and gender-inclusive modifications, the content validity index improved from 2.0 to 4.0. Face validity testing demonstrated high clarity and acceptability across all items. The internal consistency analysis yielded a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.648, indicating moderate reliability. Furthermore, the test-retest reliability displayed a commendable ICC value of 0.767 (95% CI: 0.663– 0.841). The strongest inter-item correlation was found between assistance in walking and stair climbing ( ρ = 0.419, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The Arabic version of the SARC-F exhibits acceptable content and face validity, moderate internal consistency, and good test-retest reliability. This tool is poised to enhance the early detection of sarcopenia in Arabic-speaking populations and support clinical decision-making for preventative strategies. Keywords: sarcopenia, aging, SARC-F, arabic translation, screening tool, reliability, validity