HUBUNGAN ANTARA METABOLIC DYSFUCTION - ASSOCIATED STEATOTIC LIVER DISEASE (MASLD) DENGAN KEJADIAN SARKOPENIA PADA USIA LANJUT = ASSOCIATION BETWEEN METABOLIC DYSFUNCTION – ASSOCIATED STEATOTIC LIVER DISEASE (MASLD) WITH THE INCIDENT OF SARCOPENIA IN ELDERLY PATIENTS

Abstract Background and Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is frequently associated with muscle wasting conditions such as sarcopenia through mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and vitamin D deficiency. Aim: to investigate the correlation between MASLD and incident sarcopenia in elderly patients. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital, Makassar, Indonesia, from June to July 2025. A total of 78 patients aged ≥60 years were enrolled using consecutive sampling. Sarcopenia was assessed using handgrip strength test, bioelectrical impedance analysis, and 5-times chair stand test. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: MASLD was associated with a 1.45-fold increased risk of sarcopenia (OR: 1.454; 95% CI: 0.130–1.710; p = 0.030). Low physical performance (OR: 0.357; p = 0.027) and reduced muscle mass (OR: 0.386; p = 0.040) were also significantly associated with sarcopenia. Conclusion: The findings indicate a significant correlation between MASLD and the incidence of sarcopenia in elderly patients, particularly those with low physical performance and low muscle mass.