Even as research as conducted and more is learned about COVID-19, the spread is still scary. Some pre-existing conditions increase the risk of illness or death for those who contract COVID-19.
One of these pre-existing conditions is obesity. Obesity is a disorder involving excess body fat. Those who have a body mass index (BMI) of greater than 30 are said to be obese.
It’s not known exactly why those with obesity are affected by COVID-19 more than those who are not obese. Read on for five ways that obesity may increase the risk of COVID-19 complications.
People who are obsese and have the associated risk factors of obesity, like diabetes, often have weakened innate and adaptive immunity.
Innate immunity is the first line of defense against pathogens. An example of innate immunity is the cough reflex. Adaptive immunity is the system that prevents pathogenic growth. An example of adaptive immunity is someone who has recovered from the measles and can’t contract the virus again.
Those with weakened innate and adaptive immunity are more susceptible to infections.
Obesity creates chronic inflammation. This state causes the body to overproduce cytokine, the molecules that regulate the immune system. COVID-19 also triggers cytokine production. Combining this with obesity can lead to an excess of cytokine in the body. This is called a “cytokine storm,” and it can damage multiple organs. This could explain why those who are obese have such a strong response to COVID-19.
Many with obesity also have cardiovascular disease, which comes with many associated risks. These include diabetes and hypertension. Underlying risks can contribute to difficulties stemming from a COVID-19 infection.
Those who are overweight or obese are at a higher risk of blood clots. This has also been associated with COVID-19, which damages the endothelium (lining of blood vessels). Autopsies have shown blood clots and severe endothelial damage are two causes of increased mortality in obese or overweight patients who contract COVID-19.
Obesity makes people more vulnerable to lung conditions like sleep apnea, asthma, and obesity hypoventilation syndrome. It also impacts the mechanics of the chest wall and diaphragm, which are essential for breathing. All of these issues can become more serious because of the pulmonary issues that are known to come with COVID-19 infections.
Due to these risks — and the ones that remain unknown — it’s important for those with obesity to take precautions. Wearing a mask and social distancing are important to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
It’s especially important for people with obesity to follow these public health guidelines because they may not be as well protected as others from the virus even when a vaccine is available. After receiving other vaccines, people with obesity didn’t always have an adequate response after being vaccinated.
If you are currently on a weight loss plan or being treated for obesity, you should continue, even during the pandemic. If you’re concerned about your weight and potential COVID-19 risk, our registered dietitian can help. Schedule an appointment today.
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