Handgrip Strength as a Screening Tool for Diabetes in Resource-Constrained Settings: A Potential Solution to Overcome Barriers to Diagnosis

Diabetes mellitus is an escalating global health concern, especially in low and middle-income countries. Handgrip strength (HGS), a measure of muscle strength, emerges as a potential non-invasive and affordable screening tool for diabetes, particularly in areas with limited healthcare access. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between HGS and blood glucose regulation in non-diabetic young adults and to provide valuable insights into the potential of HGS as a preventive and affordable approach to managing diabetes. An observational study was conducted on a group of Nigerian students aged 18-21 using cross sectional design. HGS was measured with a dynamometer, and its links to blood glucose markers (fasting blood glucose, 2 hour postprandial glucose, and HbA1c) were explored using multiple regression models. Findings revealed significant associations between HGS and glucose regulation markers, particularly FBS, among males. The relationship was evident in females after adjusting for body mass index (BMI). A notable relationship between HGS and 2 hour postprandial glucoselevels was observed in females but not in males. No significant associations were found between HGS and serum insulin levels across genders. Our study introduces HGS as a practical, cost-effective screening tool for blood glucose regulation disorders in resource-constrained settings.