Impact of Low Hand Grip Strength on Quality of Life, Utilization of Healthcare, and Mental Health in Individuals with Airflow Limitation

Purpose: A higher prevalence of sarcopenia has been demonstrated in individuals with airflow limitation (AFL). However, data on the impact of sarcopenia on quality of life, utilization of healthcare, and mental health in individuals with AFL are limited. Patients and methods: We used data from the 2014–2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), and participants with AFL were included. Sarcopenia was assessed using hand grip strength (HGS). The outcomes were health-related quality of life (HRQoL), utilization of healthcare, and mental health. The impact of low HGS and outcomes was assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results: Among participants with AFL, 12.6% had low HGS and the median (interquartile range) of HGS was 22.5 (18.9–26.1) kg for women and 37.7 (32.9–42.6) kg for men. After adjusting for confounders, low HGS was associated with a decrease in HRQoL (usual activities: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.70; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14–2.54; pain/discomfort: aOR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.02–2.02, anxiety/depression: aOR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.05–2.41), and increased perceived stress (aOR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.24–2.53). In the subgroup analysis, the impact of low HGS on HRQoL, utilization of healthcare, and mental health was more evident in the reduced lung function and inactive physical activity groups. Conclusion: Overall, low HGS was associated with decreased quality of life and worsening mental health in participants with AFL. Our findings underscore the importance of muscle strength for HRQoL, particularly in those with impaired lung function and sedentary lifestyles, suggesting that regular physical activity including muscle-strengthening exercises may improve HRQoL. Plain Language Summary: People with chronic lung disease often have a higher prevalence of sarcopenia, but it is unclear how this affects their daily life and mental health. In this study, we analyzed national health data from Korea and found that among people with airflow limitation, low hand grip strength was more likely to be associated with poorer quality of life, higher stress levels, and increased use of healthcare services. These issues were more pronounced in people with reduced lung function and low physical activity. Our findings underscore the importance of muscle strength for better quality of life, particularly in those with impaired lung function and sedentary lifestyles, suggesting that regular physical activity including muscle-strengthening exercises may improve quality of life.