How to support general practitioners to better detect sarcopenia among older adults: a nested case–control analysis

This study explores correlations of sarcopenia and its proxies, such as history of falls, asthenia, and ambulation issues, with frailty levels among older adults in primary care. In a cohort of 546,590 patients aged 60 years or older, “definite” sarcopenia cases were operationally defined through the use of non-specific diagnostic codes coupled with inspection of free-texts. Proxies of sarcopenia, such as falls history, asthenia, and ambulation issues were considered as well. Frailty was calculated using an Index intended to primary care. Overall, 171 definite sarcopenia cases were found, rising to 51,520 cases when including proxies (9.4