Interleukin 6 (IL6) as a potential interplaying factor between obesity and COVID-19 outcome

Abstract

Background: Obesity is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and severe COVID-19. Interleukin 6 (IL6) is a key mediator of cytokine storm hyperinflammation. However, it is unknown if IL6 is involved in the link between obesity and COVID-19 outcomes. Methods: Observational retrospective research was conducted between September 8, 2020, and September 30, 2021. BMI-varying COVID-19 patient data were collected. Demographic, clinical, radiographic, and laboratory variables were assessed. COVID-19 outcomes were examined in relation to body mass index () and IL6 levels. Results: More than half of the participants (60.4 %) were elderly individuals. A quarter of the study population was non-obese, and 6.6 % had 3rd-degree obesity. Individuals with normal weight and class I obesity had higher IL-6 levels (70.1 % and 75.6 %, respectively). Severe cases were more likely to have higher IL-6 levels than non-severe cases (p < 0.05, OR = 7.221). However, we did not find a significant association between BMI and odds of mortality (p = 0.05). Conclusion: People with severe COVID-19 illness, class 1 obesity, and those requiring intensive care unit admission had considerably higher levels of IL6, however our study found no association between BMI categories and mortality. Further research is required to investigate the interplay between obesity and COVID-19 outcomes.

Keywords

• Obesity
• Body mass index
• Interleukin 6
• Severity
• Mortality
• Public health