Higher BMI tied to increased severity of respiratory infection: JAMA
According to a recent study published in JAMA Network, higher body mass index (BMI) increases hospitalization risk and death due to COVID-19 and other respiratory infections.
A higher BMI is among the most important risk factors for several non-communicable diseases. It has also been linked to the severity of COVID-19. More data is necessary on the association of high BMI with the severity of COVID-19.
Considering the above background, researchers investigated the associations between BMI and hospitalization risk and death due to COVID-19, lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs), and upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs).
Here are the main points of the study:
A total of 476,176 participants were included. The median age was 58, 54% were women, and 94% were white. The mean BMI was 27.4.
- There were a total of 476,176 participants in the study.
- There were 54 % females and 94 % white, with a mean age of 58.
- The follow-up duration was 11.8 years (mean).
- The hazard ratios per 10-unit higher BMI for severe COVID-19, severe lower respiratory tract infections or LRTI and severe upper respiratory tract infections were 2.26, 1.74 and 1.37, respectively.
- The severity of illness is highest in those with a BMI of 35-60. The HR for COVID, LRTI and URTI was 2.38, 1.91 and 1.40, respectively.
- Out of 20,302 participants (hospitalized or died), 1,296 had COVID, 17,085 had an LRTI, and 1,504 had a URTI
- The incidence rates of severe COVID ranged from 1.2 per 1,000 person-year (BMI less than 25 ) up to 5.8 per 1,000 person-years (BMI of 35-60).
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.