Determination of Hand Grip Strength Cut-Off Values for Malnutrition Risk Screening Among Elderly Patients in Primary Care Units
Published 2026-02-15
Keywords
- Hand Grip Strength; Cut-off Values; Malnutrition Risk Screening; Elderly Patients; Primary Care Units
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Abstract
Background: According to the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) guidelines, the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) is recommended for screening malnutrition in the elderly1. However, the MNA may have limitations regarding the time required for administration and the reliance on the elderly patient's memory.
Objective: To determine the optimal cut-off values for hand grip strength (HGS) to identify the risk of malnutrition and to investigate risk factors associated with malnutrition in elderly patients aged over 60 years in a primary care setting.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 367 elderly participants (164 males, 203 females). Data collection included hand grip strength measurement using a dynamometer and malnutrition risk screening using the MNA.
Results: The prevalence of malnutrition risk was 13.4% in males and 25.1% in females. The optimal HGS cut-off values associated with malnutrition risk were identified as 24.5 kgF for males (Sensitivity 72.7%, Specificity 92.3%) and 19.1 kgF for females (Sensitivity 80.4%, Specificity 78.9%). Significant risk factors associated with malnutrition risk included Body Mass Index (BMI) < 18.5 kg/m² (p < 0.001), diabetes mellitus (p = 0.021), heart disease (p = 0.021), and depression (p = 0.004).
Conclusion: The optimal HGS cut-off values for screening malnutrition risk are 24.5 kgF for males and 19.1 kgF for females. These values are suitable for use in screening elderly patients within primary care units.