Impact of obesity and other key risk factors on adverse outcomes in COVID-19 patients in critical care settings

Abstract

Background & Objective: Although the global emergency caused by COVID-19 was officially declared over in 2023, the pandemic by no means has completely disappeared. Study explored the interconnection between obesity and critical outcomes in intensive care. Focusing on the infiltration of viruses and increased risk with obesity and other factors, this study provides insights for tailored interventions. This study is devised to establish the effect of obesity and other associated factors with outcomes of patients having COVID 19 infection in the critical care setting.

Methods: This observational study was performed in the COVID-19 ICU of Services Hospital Lahore from December 10, 2020 to February 10, 2021. One hundred fifty consecutive COVID-PCR positive, conscious patients with Age (18-80 years) and BMI (18 to ≥ 40) were included. Patients with inability to provide informed consent and pregnancy were excluded. BMI was categorized into non-obese (18-29.9) and obese (≥ 30), with outcomes assessed during ICU stay. Analysis involved descriptive statistics and logistic regression to predict outcomes.

Results: Study showed an average age of 59.73 years, BMI 30.14 kg/m², and 80.66% baseline O2 levels. BMI’s had significant impact on COVID-19 outcomes, emphasizing its association with severity, comorbidities, ARDS, and mortality (p<0.05). Logistic regression indicates BMI, SpO2, and HCO3 significantly predict outcomes, with increased BMI elevating mortality risk, while decreased SpO2 and HCO3 increase mortality likelihood (p<0.05).

Conclusion: These findings highlight considering obesity as a critical factor in COVID-19 prognosis. This research has contributed valuable insights needed to grapple with the complexities of the pandemic.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.5.9302

How to cite this: Iftikhar M, Rizvi A, Zartash S, Nawaz A. Impact of obesity and other key risk factors on adverse outcomes in COVID-19 patients in critical care settings. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(5):1337-1343. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.5.9302

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