[Guideline for diagnosis and treatment of sarcopenia in China (2024 edition)].

Abstract

Sarcopenia, an aging-related geriatric syndrome, is characterized by decreased muscle mass, declined muscle strength, and/or physical dysfunction. It is associated with significantly increased risks of falls, frailty, disability, and even death, placing a heavy burden on individuals and society. Standardized diagnosis and treatment of sarcopenia are of paramount importance for clinical practice and the development of healthy aging in China. However, to date, there is a lack of evidence-based clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis and treatment therapy of sarcopenia in China. Therefore, the National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases (Xiangya Hospital) has initiated the development of this guideline for sarcopenia, with the approval of Geriatrics Branch of the Chinese Medical Association. Development of this guideline adhered to the Guiding principles for development/revision of clinical practice guidelines in China (2022 version) and the Reporting Items for Practice Guidelines in Healthcare (RIGHT). The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system was used to assess the strength of evidence. The Delphi technique was used to determine the strength of recommendations. Finally, a total of 18 evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of sarcopenia were formulated in response to 12 most concerned important clinical questions about sarcopenia. This guideline aims to enhance the scientific approach to sarcopenia diagnosis and treatment in China, promote the in-depth development of sarcopenia research, and ultimately improve the quality of patient-centered healthcare services.