Grip Strength Predicts Women's Longevity

- A landmark study called the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study, which followed over 140,000 adults, found that grip strength was a stronger predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality than systolic blood pressure. For every 5-kilogram decrease in grip strength, there was a 16% increase in the risk of death. - Grip strength is an indicator of overall muscle mass and strength, which is crucial for longevity. Higher muscle mass is associated with lower mortality rates, improved metabolic function, a stronger immune system, and greater cognitive resilience. - The measurement of grip strength is typically done with a handheld device called a dynamometer. Research has defined weak grip strength as less than 16 kg (35 pounds) for women. - Beyond predicting longevity, weaker grip strength is also linked to a higher risk of falls, fractures, and hospitalization. It can also be an indicator of other health issues like arthritis, cognitive decline, and diabetes. - A study focusing on women aged 63 to 99 found that those in the highest grip strength group had a 33% lower risk of death compared to those in the weakest group. For every roughly 15-pound increase in grip strength, the risk of death was reduced by 15%. - Grip strength reflects a person's biological age, not just their chronological age. Weaker grip strength has been associated with accelerated aging at a cellular level. - The connection between grip strength and longevity is not limited to women. Studies have shown a similar association in men. For men, a grip strength below 26 kg (57 pounds) is generally considered weak. - Improving overall muscle strength through resistance training can in turn improve grip strength. Just 30 to 60 minutes of muscle-strengthening exercise per week has been shown to increase life expectancy.