Association between Anthropometric Variables and Patient Outcomes Among Patients with COVID-19 Infection in A Latin-American City

Abstract

Objective: To determine the relationship between anthropometric variables and patient outcomes among patients hospitalized with COVID-19 at our institution. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients hospitalized with COVID-19 in general wards and critical care unit. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected. Results: A total of 130 patients meeting inclusion criteria and hospitalized between April and August 2020 participated in this study. The majority of patients were male (63%), mean age was 59,5 ± 18.5 years, and 53,8% were older than 60 years. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.7 kg/m2 (SD 3.69). Patients with diabetes mellitus exhibited a statistically significant increase in mortality (relative risk 4.8; CI95% 1,7 – 13.8). While there was an association between being overweight or having some degree of obesity with greater mortality, this association did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: Chronic diseases are associated with complications and increased mortality in patients infected with COVID-19. Thus, efforts should be made towards achieving management of comorbidities and improved lifestyle habits.