Sara G. Aguilar-Navarro, Departamento de Geriatría, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, México
Martha H. Morales-Salazar, Departamento de Geriatría, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, México
Frailty syndrome is a clinical condition characterized by a decline in physiological reserves, increasing vulnerability to stressors. Although its foundations had been previously explored, it was in the 21st century that its phenotype was established, defined by the presence of at least three out of five criteria: Unintentional weight loss, weakness, slowness, fatigue, and low physical activity. This model has been widely adopted due to its clinical utility. Frailty is not a homogeneous process, and recent studies show that it affects women more frequently, although men experience worse clinical outcomes, such as higher mortality. These differences reflect the influence of biological, hormonal, and social factors on its development. Additionally, men are more prone to sarcopenia and cardiovascular diseases, whereas women exhibit frailty associated with weakness and abdominal obesity. Early diagnosis and personalized interventions can prevent complications, but they require consideration of gender differences. This review analyzes the latest evidence on frailty in men and women, emphasizing its impact on clinical practice and the different therapeutic and preventive strategies for its management.
Keywords: Frailty. Gender differences. Aging. Prevention. Older people.