Hand grip strength (HGS) has emerged as more than just a measure of physical capability. A recent comprehensive review, conducted by experts who delved into extensive literature, highlighted the pivotal role HGS plays in reflecting overall health parameters and its significant association with morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. This study was published in the Journal Of Health,Population and Nutrition by Raju V. and colleagues.

The review, encompassing data from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, established a robust relationship between hand grip strength and various health indicators. The interplay between HGS and health parameters was explored, revealing a multitude of correlations. Across diverse populations, lower HGS was identified among specific groups such as Asians, women, individuals with lower education levels, those engaged in sedentary work, and privileged individuals.
The review unearthed compelling evidence linking low hand grip strength to various health conditions. Diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic kidney and liver diseases, certain cancers, sarcopenia, and fragility fractures were found to have strong associations with decreased HGS. Furthermore, low HGS was significantly correlated with increased hospitalization rates, compromised nutritional status, higher overall mortality, and a diminished quality of life.
HGS, measured reliably through a hand-held dynamometer, has shown varying cut-off values in different populations. This metric's utility extends beyond a mere measure of muscle function; it stands as a potential new vital sign across the lifespan. Notably, it offers a window into diverse health issues, indicating its significance as an important biomarker of health.
The findings from this review underscore the importance of hand grip strength as an indicator that extends beyond physical capability. Its correlation with various health parameters prompts healthcare practitioners to consider HGS as a crucial element in assessing patients' overall health. The identification of low HGS could serve as an early warning sign for potential health issues, allowing for proactive interventions and improved health outcomes.
In conclusion, the comprehensive review underscores the multifaceted role of hand grip strength as an important health biomarker. Its association with morbidity, mortality, and diverse health conditions emphasizes the need for its integration into routine health assessments, potentially offering a new dimension in preventive care and healthcare monitoring.
Reference:
Vaishya, R., Misra, A., Vaish, A., Ursino, N., & D’Ambrosi, R. Hand grip strength as a proposed new vital sign of health: a narrative review of evidences. Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition,2024;43(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41043-024-00500-y