Sarcopenia e ingesta proteica en usuarios de un centro de atención a personas con discapacidad de la cuidad de Loja, durante el periodo 2024-2025

Abstract

Abstract: Sarcopenia, the progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, is a critical problem in people with different types of disabilities. This cross-sectional analytical observational study was conducted at a care center in Loja, Ecuador, with a total of 17 participants between 18 and 60 years of age. Diagnostic criteria from the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia were applied to assess sarcopenia status, and protein intake was analyzed by direct weighing of consumed foods and 24-hour multiple-step recalls. These results revealed that at least 88.2% of the population presented some degree of sarcopenia, with a prevalence of 23.52%. Although protein intake was lower than the recommended level, no significant differences were found between current and recommended intake, suggesting that other factors influence the patients' physical condition. Finally, low-protein diets are associated with a lower incidence of sarcopenia. However, this statistical analysis could not demonstrate significant associations between protein intake and sarcopenia.