Patterns and correlates of grip strength change with age in Afro-Caribbean men.

ABSTRACT:

Background

muscle strength is essential for physical functions and an indicator of morbidity and mortality in older adults. Among the factors associated with muscle strength loss with age, ethnicity has been shown to play an important role.

Objective

to examine the patterns and correlates of muscle strength change with age in a population-based cohort of middle-aged and older Afro-Caribbean men.

Methods

handgrip strength and body composition were measured in 1,710 Afro-Caribbean men. Data were also collected for demographic variables, medical history and lifestyle behaviours.

Results

the age range of the study population was 29-89 years. Grip strength increased below age 50 years, and decreased after age 50 years over 4.5-year follow-up. The average loss in gri

SUBMITTER: Forrest KY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3335373 | biostudies-literature | 2012 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature