Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Using Handgrip Strength in Determining Malnutrition in Adolescents

Abstract

We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of using handgrip strength (HGS) in determining malnutrition in adolescents. Sixty-two participants (10–18 years of age), 33 malnourished and 29 healthy participants, were recruited. A questionnaire was administered, and anthropometric parameters and HGS were measured. Dominant HGS was different in children with (11.6 ± 5.8 nkgF) or without (21.6 ± 5.7 kgF) malnutrition (P < .001). Body mass index, triceps/biceps skinfold, neck/waist/wrist circumferences, and arm muscle area were correlated with HGS. According to receiver operating characteristic analysis, dominant (area under the curve [AUC]: 85.9%), and nondominant HGSs (AUC: 83.9%) were possible predictors for malnutrition. HGS may be used as a tool for malnutrition assessment in adolescents.