Abstract
The aim was to examine diabetes as a predictor of grip strength decline during an 11-years follow-up among individuals aged 55 and older.
This study is based on the representative population-based Health 2000 Survey and its follow-up in 2011. The study population consisted of 1257 individuals, aged 55–86 years at baseline. Baseline diabetes status was defined as increased level of fasting glucose (7.0 mmol/l or more) or use of diabetes medication. Grip strength was measured with a handheld dynamometer. Generalized Estimating Equation was used for statistical analysis.
During the 11-year follow-up, grip strength declined 68 Newtons (N) among non-diabetic and 98 N among diabetic men and the difference in change between groups was significant (p=0.014). Among women, grip strength declined 19 N in non-diabetic and 24 N in diabetic women (p=0.644).
In conclusion, diabetes is a strong predictor of muscle strength decline among older men but not among older women.