Sarcopenic obesity in older adults as a clinical and public health concern

Czech version

Authors: Katarína Bielaková ^1,2; Ondřej Ludka ^1,2
Authors‘ workplace: Všeobecná interní klinika, Fakultní nemocnice Brno ¹; Lékařská fakulta Masarykovy univerzity, Brno ²
Published in: Geriatrie a Gerontologie 2026, 15, č. 2: 71-76
Category: Review Article
doi: https://doi.org/10.61568/geri/50-6739/20260506/143565

Overview

Sarcopenic obesity represents a growing clinical problem in older adults, associated with population aging. It is characterized by the coexistence of reduced muscle mass and function together with excess adiposity and is linked to increased mortality, a higher burden of comorbidities, and an elevated risk of geriatric syndromes such as frailty, falls, and loss of independence. It was not until 2022 that a new definition and diagnostic criteria were established, improving its identification in clinical practice. Management requires a comprehensive approach including lifestyle modification, regular physical activity (especially resistance training), optimization of nutrition with adequate protein intake, and, when appropriate, pharmacological interventions. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential to improve health outcomes and quality of life in older adults.

Keywords:

sarcopenia – older adults – aging – sarcopenic obesity

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Editorial

Article was published in

Geriatrics and Gerontology

2026 Issue 2