Handgrip strength as a screening tool for diabetes in resource-constrained settings: a potential solution to overcome barriers to diagnosis

Abstract

<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title><jats:sec><jats:title>Background Information</jats:title><jats:p>Diabetes mellitus is an escalating global health concern, especially in low and middle-income countries. The high cost and inaccessibility of diagnostic tools in resource-constrained settings have heightened the need for alternative screening methods. Handgrip strength (HGS), a measure of muscle strength, emerges as a potential non-invasive and affordable screening tool for diabetes, particularly in areas with limited healthcare access.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec><jats:title>Objective</jats:title><jats:p>To investigate the relationship between handgrip strength and blood glucose regulation in non-diabetic young adults and to provide valuable insights into the potential of handgrip strength as a preventive and affordable approach to managing diabetes.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec><jats:title>Methods</jats:title><jats:p>A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 59 students (aged 18-21) from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria. Handgrip strength was measured using a dynamometer, and its relationship with blood glucose regulatory markers, such as fasting blood glucose, 2-hour post-prandial glucose, and HbA1c, was analyzed. Multiple regression models were utilized to examine the potential associations.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec><jats:title>Results</jats:title><jats:p>Findings revealed significant associations between HGS and glucose regulation markers, particularly FBS, among males. In females, the relationship was evident only after adjusting for body mass index (BMI). Furthermore, a notable relationship between HGS and 2-hour post-prandial glucose levels was observed in females but not in males. However, no significant associations were found between HGS and serum insulin levels across genders.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec><jats:title>Conclusion</jats:title><jats:p>Our study introduces HGS as a practical and cost-effective screening tool for blood glucose regulation disorders, aligning with existing literature and offering a personalized approach to management. In resource-constrained settings, HGS becomes significant, addressing diagnostic barriers and potentially revolutionizing diabetes management. However, limitations include a small sample size of 59 students and restrictions to specific demographics, emphasizing the need for future studies in diverse populations to validate HGS’s efficacy in real-world, resource-constrained settings.</jats:p></jats:sec>