Serum α-1 acid glycoprotein as a potential biomarker is associated with sarcopenia among American women aged 20-49: A cross-sectional study

Background The role of α-1 acid glycoprotein (AGP) as an inflammatory marker in sarcopenia remains unclear. This study, concentrating on young women, investigated the potential of serum AGP as a biomarker for stratifying the risk of sarcopenia. Methods Utilizing nationally representative data from 1,417 women (20–49 years) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we conducted a multivariable-adjusted analysis through weighted logistic regression models. Stratified analyses incorporated interaction testing across clinically relevant subgroups. Nonlinear associations were interrogated using restricted cubic spline modeling with threshold detection algorithms, and sensitivity analyses were performed. Results In the fully adjusted model, each 1-unit rise in AGP concentration increased sarcopenia risk by 2% (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01–1.03). This link was more evident in individuals aged 30–39, without diabetes, with hypoalbuminemia, and CRP levels below 1.05 mg/L. Additionally, RCS and threshold analysis demonstrated a nonlinear relationship, identifying a turning point at 76.3 mg/dL. Conclusion Our findings corroborate the association between AGP levels and the risk of sarcopenia in women aged 20 to 49 years. This positions AGP quantification as a promising biomarker for early detection and risk stratification of sarcopenia.