Predisposing Factors Promoting COVID-19 Infection and Mortality

Abstract

The pandemic of COVID-19 infection has had an untold adverse impact on patients living with chronic disease, across various ethnicity/race, age and gender. Underlying hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and respiratory illness are key risk factors for the development of severe COVID-19 pneumonia and systematic inflammation. Patients who are immunosuppressed by virtue of their chronic disease, age or a therapy have been identified as susceptible groups. The redirection of healthcare services towards the increasing numbers of COVID-19 patients has compromised the healthcare delivery to patients with chronic illness. Movement restriction measures as approach to curb the spread of the infection have also compromised the metabolic health of many patients who need enhanced physical activity to improve their health. Media publications on COVID-19 infection and restrictions may have also contributed to the poor mental health of some individuals, especially patients with underlying mental conditions or its risk factors. The inadequate or availability of quality health care system across low income and developing regions especially, those with older age groups, has further accelerated the spread and death rate from COVID-19. Future research should be directed towards protecting vulnerable groups from possible waves of COVID-19 as a measure to reduce the negative impact of the pandemic on these individuals.