Obesity in relation to morbidity and mortality in COVID-19

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity and COVID-19 are global pandemics that constitute a major health problem at present, raising mortality rates and affecting all population groups, especially the most vulnerable, demonstrating that there is no sufficiently well prepared health system that can counteract the effects of their coexistence. Objective: To investigate the relationship between obesity and morbidity and mortality in patients with COVID-19. Material and Methods: A total of 47 sources were reviewed in the PubMed, Lilacs, SciELO and Cumed databases, of which 28 citations in ENGLISH and SPANISH versions were used. The search terms “obesity and COVID-19”, “Mortality”, “Morbidity and COVID-19”, “obesity and SARS-CoV-2” were also used. Development: Current scientific evidence shows that the events related to the COVID-19 disease are worse in people with obesity and that it affects most physiological processes and system functions, leading to a worsening of patients with SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Conclusions: Obesity is a risk factor for mortality in patients with COVID-19. Associated comorbidities, insulin resistance, hypercoagulability and prothrombotic state, limitations of respiratory functions and vitamin D deficiency, among others, are factors that lead to worse evolution and mortality.

Keywords

• obesidad
• insulino resistencia
• covid-19