Risk Factors for Severe COVID-19

Overview

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2. It is very contagious and spreads through person-to-person contact. Symptoms can feel like a cold or flu. COVID-19 can lead to pneumonia and severe acute respiratory syndrome in severe cases. People with severe COVID-19 are more likely to need hospitalization, intensive care, and/or a ventilator to support breathing.

Knowing the risk factors for severe COVID-19 is important because it helps healthcare providers identify individuals who may be at a higher risk of developing severe symptoms or complications from the virus and prevent hospitalization.

Here are some of the identified risk factors for severe COVID-19:

• Age: The risk of severe COPD substantially increases for individuals over 65 years old.
• Disabilities: People with certain physical or developmental disabilities may be at a heightened risk for severe COVID-19 illness. This could be due to other chronic conditions or living in group settings where there is a higher chance of exposure to the virus.
• Heart disease: This includes heart failure, coronary artery disease and cardiomyopathy.
• Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions that increase the risk of developing severe COVID-19 illness include the following:
  • Immunocompromised conditions or weakened immune system, including cancer, HIV infection, or organ transplant
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Chronic liver disease
  • Chronic lung disease, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and interstitial lung disease
  • Diabetes
  • Neurological conditions, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
  • Mental health conditions, including depression and schizophrenia
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy or recent pregnancy
  • Sickle cell disease
  • Stroke or cerebrovascular disease
  • Substance use disorders
  • Tuberculosis
• Gender: Studies have found that males may be at a higher risk of developing severe cases of COVID-19 compared to females.
• Physical inactivity or sedentary lifestyle
• Ethnicity: African American, Hispanics and South Asian individuals are at higher risk for severe illness.
• Genetic factors: Although still being studied certain blood groups are at risk for more severe illness.

It's crucial to remember that these risk factors do not guarantee that someone will develop severe COVID-19. They simply indicate an increased likelihood. Additionally, there may be other factors that contribute to the severity of the disease that are still being studied.

If you have any concerns about your own personal risk factors or potential severity of COVID-19, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances and medical history.