Type 2 Diabetes and Sarcopenia

Sarcopenia, which is defined as an age-related decline in muscle mass and strength, has been found to have a strong bidirectional relationship with Type 2 diabetes. Both problems are associated with advancing age, and have now become of critical importance in view of increasing lifespan and a large increase in the elderly population. Sarcopenia significantly worsens the quality of life and increases morbidity and mortality in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Uncontrolled diabetes, on the other hand, predisposes to worsening sarcopenia. This review discusses the common risk factors and pathophysiology related to these two conditions. We also discuss pharmacological as well as non-pharmacological ways of combating this dual threat.