PREVALENCE OF FOOD INSECURITY AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH MUSCLE MASS, HAND GRIP STRENGTH AND GAIT SPEED AMONG ELDERLY IN TEHRAN

Background: Human muscle mass undergoes constant changes as one getting older. This change can be accelerated by inadequate nutrition. The aim of the study is to investigate the association between food insecurity and its association with muscle mass strength. Methods: The cross-sectional and case-control study was conducted among 310 men and 334 women (60 and over) from August 2014−July 2015 in Tehran. A pilot study was conducted before initiation of the study to validate equipment. Food insecurity data were collected using Household Food Insecurity Access Scale. Muscles mass strengths were analyzed by Bioelectronics impedance analysis, Squeeze bulb dynamometer. Conclusion: Elderly people living in food insecurity status had scored lower mean standard deviation of   muscle mass strength. Food security is a key factor to sustainin c7489-02), and the 6-step walk test. Association between food insecurity and other variables were analyzed by SPSS software. Results: Findings showed that food insecurity prevalence was (29%). It also showed (10%) elderly women and (21%) men had low muscle mass, (24.3%) elderly women and (19.4%) men had a lower hand grip strength and a (21.9%) had low gait speed and the difference was significant (P-value <.001). The risk of having weak hand grip strength is 5.8 times higher in men in (model 1), 11.5 times higher in women (model 2) and 5.5 higher in men in (model 3). The risk of fallen more likely occurs in women compared to men. g muscle mass strength and physical performance. It helps to maintain healthy aging and improves quality life.