(image: Yonhap)
SEOUL, Aug. 2 (Korea Bizwire) — A research team at Asan Medical Center led by Professor Park Hye-soon has discovered a close correlation between an individual’s grip strength and quality of life.
The team analyzed data from 4,620 Korean adults 20 years and older to conclude that weak grip strength is correlated to decreased quality of life.
The results of the study were announced by the hospital yesterday.
The research team divided the participants into four groups depending on their grip strength. Individuals in the four groups were then compared by quality of life.
Men with the weakest grip strength had 1.93 times more problems with mobility issues compared to those in the strongest group. In addition, physical discomfort also increased by 1.53 times.
For women, the group with the weakest grip strength had 2.12 times more problems with mobility than the strongest group, while physical discomfort increased by 1.48 times.
The research team concluded that grip strength weakens as individuals get older and lose muscle mass, which eventually inconveniences their everyday lives.
Park said that the study was meaningful because it demonstrated a correlation between grip strength and quality of life in all age groups, including those in their 20s.
“In order to have a better quality of life, individuals should try to maintain an appropriate weight and to prevent the loss of muscle mass while exercising properly,” said the professor.
The study was recently published in the international journal “Quality of Life Research.”
H. S. Seo (hsseo@koreabizwire.com)
