Loss of muscle may silently accelerate death and cardiovascular complications in diabetes. A meta-analysis published in Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome reported that sarcopenia significantly raises the risks of mortality, cardiovascular disease, and diabetic complications in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

The meta-analysis pooled findings from 15 studies examining the relationship between sarcopenia and clinical outcomes in type 2 diabetes. Patients with muscle loss had a 72% higher risk of death (hazard ratio 1.72; 95% CI 1.28–2.32) and a 94% higher risk of cardiovascular disease (hazard ratio 1.94; 95% CI 1.67–2.25) than those without sarcopenia.

The odds of developing diabetic complications were more than twice as high (odds ratio 2.49; 95% CI 1.53–4.05). These associations remained consistent across all studies with low risk of bias. Integrating muscle strength and mass evaluation into diabetes care may help detect vulnerability earlier and support interventions that improve survival and reduce cardiovascular events.