Relationship Between Handgrip Strength and Age in the Body Composition Variables Among People Living with HIV

Background: The study of aging and handgrip strength (HGS) is important to gain knowledge regarding health care and quality of life in people living with HIV (PLHIV). Objective: The aim of the study is to analyze the relationship between HGS and age in the body composition variables of PLHIV. Methods: The sample consisted of 77 PLHIV, divided into three groups: G40 – PLHIV aged 40-49 years (n=39); G50 – PLHIV aged 50-59 years (n=26); and G60 – PLHIV aged 60-69 years (n=12). Data collection included anamnesis (sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory information), physical assessment (body composition and HGS), and physical activity level. Data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: It was noted that men, compared to women, are 5.85 times more likely to present adequate HGS (p<0.001). In addition, adequate HGS was associated with adequate values of body mass index (p<0.001), waist circumference (p<0.001), and fat percentage (p<0.001). The G40 and G50 groups, in relation to the G60, were associated with adequate abdominal circumference (p=0.04). Conclusion: Monitoring the evolution of HGS in PLHIV, over time, makes it possible to infer about body fat and muscle mass, in order to propose prevention actions and guidelines to prevent early muscle loss, the development of overweight/obesity, and abdominal obesity.