Diagnostic Performance of Arm Circumference Compared to Other Indicators for Detecting Sarcopenia in Older Adults

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the accuracy of arm circumference (AC) compared with other anthropometric and functional indicators as a predictor of sarcopenia risk in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional, analytical, population-based study derived from a household survey involving individuals aged 60 years or older. Measurements of AC, calf circumference (CC), and variables related to muscle strength, muscle mass, and functional performance were collected, including the Timed Up and Go test, sit-to-stand test, and gait speed. RESULTS: The sample comprised 708 older adults, predominantly female (64.7%), aged between 60 and 94 years. The prevalence of sarcopenia was 14.7%, with 4.9% classified as severe. AC showed a negative association with sarcopenia (β=-0.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75-0.92, p