Sarcopenia: From Global Consensus to Korean Implementation — A Narrative Review and Standpoint
- Author:
Geon Young JANG
1
;
Sunghwan JI
;
Heewon JUNG
;
Ji Yeon BAEK
;
Il-Young JANG
;
Kyoung Min KIM
;
Miji KIM
;
Clara Yongjoo PARK
;
Kwang-Pyo LEE
;
Dongryeol RYU
;
Sang Yoon LEE
;
Ok Hee JEON
;
Sunyoung KIM
;
Author Information
- Publication Type:Review Article
- From: Annals of Geriatric Medicine and Research 2026;30(1):3-17
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: Sarcopenia is a major geriatric syndrome characterized by progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, resulting in disability and mortality. This narrative review synthesizes international consensus recommendations and Korean evidence to guide context-specific sarcopenia management strategies. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and KoreaMed (January 2000–November 2025) were searched, focusing on randomized trials, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, clinical practice guidelines, and large observational studies. Global diagnostic frameworks have evolved from muscle mass-based definitions toward multidimensional models that incorporate muscle strength and physical performance. Exercise and nutrition remain the mainstay treatments, with resistance-based training and adequate protein intake. Currently, pharmacologic options with proven clinical benefit are limited. In Korea, growing evidence supports the effectiveness of community-based sarcopenia interventions, underscoring the need for standardized, integrated delivery models that bridge the fragmented healthcare system and enable sustainable implementation.
