Study Establishes Handgrip Strength as a Key Indicator of Age-Related Health Risks

A comprehensive study led by researchers at the University of South Australia has revealed that handgrip strength can serve as a significant predictor for age-related diseases and disabilities. This extensive research, which involved collaboration with 140 authors worldwide, has resulted in the most extensive and geographically diverse international norms for handgrip strength to date. These norms facilitate global comparisons, health screenings, and health monitoring throughout the adult lifespan.

Published in The Journal of Sport and Health Science, the findings are based on data collected from 100 unique observational studies encompassing a total of 2.4 million adults aged 20 to over 100 years from 69 countries. The study reflects a wide demographic, covering six of the seven continents, 17 of the 22 United Nations geographical subregions, and representing 71% of the global population.

This research marks a groundbreaking achievement as it is the first time international norms for handgrip strength have been established across different age groups and genders. Handgrip strength is measured using a dynamometer that assesses the maximum force a person can exert in a brief period.

Individuals exhibiting low handgrip strength are at an elevated risk for mortality from various causes, including cardiovascular diseases, and are more likely to experience physical disabilities. The study introduced a percentile framework for handgrip strength, categorizing individuals based on their strength levels: those below the 20th percentile are classified as having 'low' strength; individuals in the 20-39th percentiles are deemed to have 'somewhat low' strength; the 40-59th percentiles signify 'moderate' strength; the 60-79th percentiles indicate 'somewhat high' strength; and those in the 80th percentile or above are recognized for having 'high' strength.

These new norms are crucial for monitoring healthy aging, allowing for the observation of strength changes over time. The lead researcher emphasizes that muscle strength is a vital biomarker reflecting overall health status, both currently and in the future. Handgrip strength typically increases slightly during early adulthood, peaks between the ages of 30 and 39, and then declines with age, particularly in later years.

By establishing these international handgrip strength norms, clinicians can better assess an individual's strength relative to peers of the same age and gender, thereby identifying those who may require health interventions. Prior to this study, there was a lack of international benchmarks for comparison.

The research has provided robust guidelines that enable health professionals to rank and monitor muscle strength over time, offering insights into potential health risks. For instance, understanding an individual's percentile ranking can quickly inform healthcare providers about necessary interventions for those identified as having low muscle strength.

Furthermore, the standardized norms will enhance the reliability of grip strength test results, facilitating cross-country comparisons and tracking trends over time. This will also assist in evaluating the effectiveness of public health initiatives, providing personalized feedback and health advice to those at risk of declining strength.

In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of handgrip strength as a valuable indicator of health and longevity, providing essential data that can guide clinical practice and public health strategies aimed at improving health outcomes across diverse populations.