#1505 Low handgrip strength predicts long term mortality in patients treated with hemodialysis

Abstract Background and Aims Handgrip strength (HGS) is an objective, validated and inexpensive method for assessing muscle strength and sarcopenia in patients treated with hemodialysis. Low HGS, defined as values below 27 kg for men and 16 kg for women, is relatively common among this population. It is associated with increased mortality risk in this population. We previously reported a significantly higher mortality rate in hemodialysis patients with low compared to normal HGS, during mean follow up time of 7.66 months (OR for mortality 9.32). The aim of the current report is to evaluate long-term mortality risk in this population. Method Our cohort included prevalent hemodialysis patients treated in a single dialysis center in a tertiary hospital. Primary outcome was mortality. HGS was measured pre-dialysis, using a Handgrip Dynamometer in the dominant hand. It was defined as a dichotomous parameter (normal/low). Relevant medical history, clinical and biochemical nutritional parameters were documented and included in the statistical analysis. Univariate Kaplan-Maier and multivariate Cox proportional regression was used to identify predictors of mortality. Results The cohort included 74 hemodialysis patients, mean age 69.2 ± 14.3, 24 (32.5%) females. Low HGS was measured in 33 patients (44.5%). During mean follow-up time of 27.06 + 1.43 months, 28 (37.8%) patients died. Low HGS significantly predicted mortality on Cox multivariate analysis, HR 2.84 P = 0.039, 95% CI 1.05–7.65. Kaplan-Meier curves for time to event for the primary outcome differ significantly (P = 0.001 by log-rank test, Fig. 1). Conclusion HGS is a simple device used for muscle strength evaluation in patients treated with hemodialysis. Its strong correlation with short and long-term mortality provides an important prognostic tool as part of patient's assessment.