Low Muscle Mass Is a Risk Factor for Type 2 Diabetes Among Cameroonian Adults

Author(s): Mbango-Ekouta Noël Désirée, Ongnessek Sandrine, Ngo Bikai Vanessa, Mboulley Alexia, Ndeme Mboussi Wilfried Steve, Choukem Simeon Pierre

Background: Obesity is well established as a risk factor for type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, few studies have explored the association between body composition components and the risk of developing T2D. This study investigates the relationship between low muscle mass and the risk of T2D.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study on 333 Cameroonian adults. Diabetes risk was assessed using the Findrisc score, while body composition was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Low muscle mass was defined as an appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) < 7 kg/m² in men and < 5.5 kg/m² in women. Data were analyzed using R software. Pearson’s correlation coefficient and univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess the association between low muscle mass and the risk of T2D.

Results: The mean age of participants was 47±13 years, with a female predominance (63% vs. 37%). A positive correlation was observed between ASMI and the Findrisc score (R = 0.31, p = 0.02). Participants with low muscle mass had a 2.14 times higher risk of developing T2D compared to those with normal muscle mass (95% CI: 0.57–8.84, p = 0.002).

Conclusion: Individuals with low muscle mass have an increased risk of T2D, highlighting the importance of body composition in diabetes prevention. Muscle mass assessment should be integrated into screening and prevention strategies, particularly for at-risk populations.