Editor’s View

摘要

Sarcopenia is characterised by a reduction in muscle mass and strength, but is associated with morbidity, disability, poor quality of life, increased healthcare costs and excess mortality. It has been estimated that the prevalence of sarcopenia in people aged >65 years is 6–15%, but it may be as high as 50% above the age of 80 years. From my own perspective of musculoskeletal disease, there is growing interest in the relationship between the loss of muscle mass and the development of osteoporosis, falls and fragility fractures. It is therefore timely that this issue contains a Consensus Report from the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (pp. 412–423). The Working Group included representatives from the European Geriatric Medicine Society, the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism, the International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics–European Region and the International Association of Nutrition and Aging. The report is comprehensive, covering the definition and pathogenesis of sarcopenia and its relationship to cachexia, frailty and obesity. It also reviews the assessment of muscle mass, strength and function and diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia. Unfortunately, there are few clinical trials examining potential treatment for sarcopenia. It is therefore helpful that the Report concludes by discussing treatment outcomes for research and the challenges of managing the condition. Hopefully, this Report will stimulate interest and awareness of sarcopenia as well as stimulate further research work in this area.