A new study from the Federal University of São Carlos in Brazil warns that sarcopenic obesity, characterized by high body fat and diminishing muscle mass, elevates the risk of death by 83%. This condition exacerbates the dangers associated with standard obesity.
Sarcopenia, meaning "poverty of flesh," refers to muscle atrophy. In sarcopenic obesity, excess adiposity accelerates muscle loss, worsened by oxidative stress from poor lifestyle choices or underlying medical issues.
Over 12 years, data from over 5,000 individuals showed that combining excess body fat with reduced muscle mass was a significant driver of mortality. Researchers found simple methods to detect sarcopenic obesity, enabling early interventions like nutritional monitoring and physical exercise.
Traditionally, detection required costly imaging. However, scientists developed a low-cost model using measurements of abdominal circumference and lean mass. This allows for early screening and interventions such as weight loss plans and resistance training.
While excess body fat is detrimental, low muscle mass also poses a serious risk. Sarcopenic obesity is identified by an abdominal circumference greater than 102 cm for men and 88 cm for women, and a skeletal muscle mass index below 9.36 kg/m² for men and 6.73 kg/m² for women.