TDNet Discover

Background: The novel SARS-CoV-2 virus causing COVID-19 infection led to the declaration of a pandemic in 2020. At that time, research aimed to quickly identify factors placing individuals at higher risk of disease progression. The requirement of invasive mechanical ventilation is linked to severe disease and higher mortality rates. While often associated with additional comorbid conditions, it is unclear whether obesity is an independent risk factor for acquisition of severe disease. Purpose: This review aims to answer the question: In COVID-19 positive patients, does higher BMI correlate with increased risk of invasive mechanical ventilation requirement and subsequent mortality? Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library was completed, using a variety of search phrases including "covid-19 AND obesity AND prognosis","outcomes", "age", “mechanical ventilation”, covid-19 obesity AND outcomes meta-analysis.” Three meta-analyses were included in the study. All 3 were determined to be of “good” quality by qualitative assessment. Results: All 3 studies identified a statistically significant higher risk of invasive mechanical ventilation requirement as well as overall mortality in obese patients with COVID-19 infection. Conclusion: Obesity is an independent risk factor for the development of severe disease in COVID-19 positive patients. Individuals with severe disease are more likely to require invasive mechanical ventilation and are, therefore, more at risk of mortality.