# Weak Grip Strength Linked to Higher Risk of Pneumonia and Sepsis

*Handgrip strength and risk of common infections and sepsis: Two prospective cohorts with proteomic mediation analysis.*

- **Evidence Level**: Strong
- **Publication Types**: Journal Article
- **Journal**: Archives of gerontology and geriatrics
- **Sample Size**: 405,451 UK adults plus 4,474 Chinese adults
- **Authors**: Mak JKL, Krishnamoorthy S, Zhang X, Lin SY, Zheng HF, Tan KCB, Kung AWC, Cheung CL
- **Published**: 2026-06-01
- **Topics**: muscle strength, immune function, aging
- **DOI**: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.archger.2026.106317
- **Original Source**: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42241793/

## Summary

In over 400,000 UK adults, weaker handgrip strength was tied to higher rates of pneumonia, UTIs, skin infections, and sepsis. Each 5-kg drop in grip raised infection risk by about 5-10%. The link was strongest in underweight people, and inflammation-related proteins like GDF15 partly explained it.

## Practical Takeaway

This study suggests building grip and overall muscle strength may support immune resilience as you age.

---

_Canonical: https://longevity-switzerland.com/en/research/weak-grip-strength-linked-to-higher-risk-of-pneumonia-and-sepsis · Part of Longevity Cities · Updated 2026-06-01_