The Relationship Between Dynapenia and Insulin Resistance in Non-diabetic Women over 65 Years of Age: A Cross-Sectional Study

Recent studies suggest a link between hyperglycemia and dynapenia, but it is unclear whether this occurs before overt diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between dynapenia and insulin resistance in non-diabetic women over 65 years of age. A total of 179 women over 65 were included and divided into dynapenic (n = 94) and non-dynapenic (n = 85) groups. Physical examinations, anthropometric measurements, and handgrip strength assessments were performed. Muscle mass was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis, and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was conducted. The dynapenic group had significantly lower muscle mass, handgrip strength, serum albumin, and calf circumference (p < 0.05), and higher AST levels (p = 0.042). Patients with insulin resistance had significantly greater upper arm and calf circumferences (p = 0.001; p = 0.003). Handgrip strength varied significantly by TUG test category (p = 0.004). Dynapenia increased the risk of insulin resistance by 2.385 times. Additionally, each unit increase in glucose, insulin, and upper arm circumference raised insulin resistance risk (OR = 1.048, 1.133, and 1.175, respectively). Dynapenia, glucose, insulin, and upper arm circumference were independent risk factors for HOMA-IR. A significant association was found between HOMA-IR and dynapenia in non-diabetic women over 65. Findings suggest that dynapenia may emerge in the prediabetic stage due to insulin resistance. Early identification and management of insulin resistance may help prevent the onset of dynapenia.