Relative Grip Strength as a Predictor of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Incidence: A Longitudinal Study by Metabolic Syndrome Status and Risk Factors Aged 51 to 88 Years
10.5763/kjsm.2025.43.4.238
- Author:
DooYong PARK
1
;
Buseok KIM
;
On LEE
;
Yeon Soo KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Physical Education, College of Education, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Clinical Article
- From:The Korean Journal of Sports Medicine
2025;43(4):238-246
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:Previous studies have struggled to confirm independent associations between grip strength and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) when considering individual metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk factors. The primary aim of this study was to elucidate the association between relative grip strength (RGS) and the incidence of NAFLD, with a focus on MetS, using longitudinal data.
Methods:The study included 1,702 general adult participants aged 51 to 88 years who completed surveys during the 2013−2020 periods. NAFLD was assessed using the hepatic steatosis index, while RGS was measured with the JAMA 5030J1 (Saehan) device. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was employed to evaluate the relationship between RGS, MetS risk factors, and the risk of developing NAFLD. Hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for NAFLD incidence.
Results:After adjusting for various confounding variables, a 76% reduction in the HR for NAFLD incidence was observed in both the non-MetS and MetS groups among individuals with high RGS levels compared to those with low RGS levels (HR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.15−0.38). High RGS levels were significantly associated with a reduced HR for NAFLD incidence across all MetS risk factors compared to low RGS levels. Notably, a significant association between moderate RGS and reduced NAFLD incidence risk was found only in the high triglyceride and low high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol group.
Conclusion:This study demonstrates that high levels of RGS are independently associated with a reduced risk of developing NAFLD, particularly in relation to MetS status.
