Calf circumference, longitudinal changes, and health Outcomes among cummunity-dwelling older adults from Southern Brazil

Abstract

The global aging population, driven by declining mortality and fertility rates alongside longer life expectancy, is a significant public health challenge. By 2050, older adults are projected to number 2.1 billion, with those aged 80 and above tripling to 426 million (United Nations, 2022). This demographic shift is especially rapid in low- and middleincome countries (LMICs) like Brazil, where the elderly population is expected to rise from 7% in 2010 to 24% by 2030 (IBGE, 2022). CC correlates with muscle mass and function, and lower CC has been linked to higher mortality and functional decline. This study aims to explore the association between CC changes and health outcomes among older adults in Southern Brazil.