Aging-, obesity-, and diabetes-related sarcopenia: Pathogenesis and interventions

ABSTRACT: As global aging accelerates, sarcopenia has become an increasingly important public health concern. Although typically recognized as an age-related condition, sarcopenia can develop and progress more rapidly under certain pathological conditions, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. With the ongoing advancement of related research, the mechanisms underlying sarcopenia are being progressively elucidated. Management strategies include both nonpharmacological and pharmacological interventions. Resistance exercise is currently regarded as one of the most effective and foundational nonpharmacological approaches. Strength-based training programs have been shown to improve muscle mass and strength, reduce functional decline, and lower the risk of falls. However, despite the growing recognition of sarcopenia as a major health issue, particularly among aging populations, no drug has yet been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration as a specific treatment for this condition, due to its complex pathophysiology. This review aims to systematically summarize the epidemiological characteristics and pathogenesis of aging-, obesity-, and diabetes-related sarcopenia and to discuss evidence-based intervention strategies. Future research should focus on elucidating the underlying biological mechanisms, identifying biomarkers for early diagnosis, and developing individualized precision treatment systems.