Correlation Between Vitamin D Levels and Charlson Comorbidity Index with Sarcopenia in Geriatric Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Elderly individuals are particularly susceptible to malnutrition due to the physiological changes associated with aging, one of which is often vitamin D deficiency. Several studies have indicated a potential association between vitamin D concentrations and sarcopenia; however, the results remain inconsistent. Furthermore, there is limited knowledge regarding the impact of comorbid diseases on this relationship. Methods: This was an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design, aimed at determining the relationship between vitamin D levels and the Charlson Comorbidity Index with sarcopenia in geriatric patients. The research subjects were geriatric patients receiving outpatient care at the geriatric clinic of Ulin Hospital Banjarmasin, who met the inclusion criteria and were selected using a consecutive sampling technique. Measurements of sarcopenia components, Charlson Comorbidity Index scores, and vitamin D levels were performed. The degree of sarcopenia was then calculated, tabulated, and analyzed using correlation tests. Results: A total of 77 subjects participated in the study. There was no significant association between vitamin D levels and the incidence of sarcopenia. Similarly, no significant relationship was found between the Charlson Comorbidity Index and sarcopenia. Conclusion: Vitamin D levels are not associated with the incidence of sarcopenia in geriatric patients. Similarly, the Charlson Comorbidity Index score is not associated with the incidence of sarcopenia in this population.