The association of body composition and fat distribution with dysmobility syndrome in community-dwelling older adults: Bushehr Elderly Health (BEH) program

Abstract

Background and objective Dysmobility Syndrome (DS) is characterized as an accumulation of clinical risk factors for functional disability, such as osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and obesity. Neurological disorders that affect the motor and sensory systems can also contribute to the condition, resulting in gait and muscle strength disturbances, as well as a history of falls and fractures. The study aimed to determine the association between fat distribution in different body areas and the odds of older adults developing DS, as there is still uncertainty about the accumulation of fat in which area is most closely linked to the condition. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted according to the data from the second phase of the Bushehr Elderly Health Cohort (BEH). Dysmobility Syndrome was defined based on the co-occurrence of at least three outcomes of its criteria. Body composition was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and anthropometric studies. For evaluating the relationship, multivariate logistic regression and adjusted univariate linear regression were used. Results Of 2,359 who were recruited in the study, 1,277 participants (54.13%) had DS. According to the final logistic regression model in the limb region, FM and FM to FFM ratios were significantly associated with DS [OR (95%CI) = 1.04 (1.02 to 1.05), and 3.42 (1.95 to 5.99), respectively]. Also, In the trunk region, the FM and FM to FFM ratio were significantly related to the odds of DS, although this relationship was weaker than in the limbs region [OR (95%CI) = 1.02 (1.00 to 1.03), and 2.45 (1.36 to 4.39), respectively]. Conclusion Our findings indicate that a higher regional and whole-body amount of fat mass rather than fat-free mass is closely linked to an increased risk of DS, particularly in the elderly population. Notably, higher fat mass in the limbs (especially in the legs) is associated with greater odds of DS, while a higher android-to-gynoid fat mass ratio is associated with lower DS risk. Screening fat mass distribution in older individuals can be a valuable strategy for promptly diagnosing DS, implementing interventions to prevent disabilities, and improving their quality of life.

Development of soft tissue asymmetry indicators to characterize aging and functional mobility

“…Aligning with previous research ( Wilkinson et al, 2018 ), our findings highlight that differences in muscle mass between the right and left thighs can result in imbalances affecting strength and function, particularly in movements like walking or climbing stairs. Variations in fat distribution impact body weight distribution, potentially influencing gait, and balance ( Gonzalez et al, 2020 ; Khaleghi et al, 2023 ), while the connective tissue between muscle and fat in the thigh serves as a predictor of incident of mobility disability ( Schaap et al, 2013 ; Reinders et al, 2015 ; Borghi et al, 2022 ). Despite the growing recognition of the importance of this asymmetry information, there is a notable absence of studies examining its implications in designing effective interventions to improve and sustain mobility function in older adults.…”

“…Despite the growing recognition of the importance of muscle quality and mobility ( Simonsick et al, 2008 ; Reinders et al, 2015 ; Gonzalez et al, 2020 ; Borghi et al, 2022 ; Khaleghi et al, 2023 ), there still exists a lack of studies examining asymmetry and its implications regarding mobility in older adults. In contrast to previous studies focusing solely on NTRA features for one leg, a new approach assessing asymmetries in NTRA features may provide insight into how asymmetry in these three tissue types in the thigh relates to age and lower extremity function (LEF) among older adults.…”