Abstract

COYAGO, Angi Solano  and  FERNANDEZ, Diana. Obesity as a factor involved in the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vive Rev. Salud [online]. 2024, vol.7, n.19, pp.226-243.  Epub Jan 15, 2024. ISSN 2664-3243.  https://doi.org/10.33996/revistavive.v7i19.297.

Obese individuals face greater complications in contracting SARS-CoV-2 due to their chronic proinflammatory state and reduced immune response, related to excess adipose tissue. Virus interaction with ACE2 receptors and renal ectopic lipid retention are key issues in this context. Objective. To analyze the specific features of obesity that increase susceptibility to severe COVID-19 symptoms, from articles published between 2020 and 2022, and to promote future research. Methodology. A systematic review of original articles between 2020 and 2022 was conducted using key terms and Boolean operators in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, etc. Non-original studies were excluded to obtain more specific research. Results. Of 180 articles found, 42 were selected. Among these, it was highlighted that obese patients, especially elderly men, presented severe complications. However, young people with severe obesity and people with low weight also showed a higher risk of mortality. Decreased lung function, low vitamin D levels, and altered ACE2 were implicated in the severity of infection. Obesity-associated hyperglycemia increased the risk of ICU admission and mechanical ventilation, while insulin resistance worsened prognosis. Conclusion. Obesity emerges as an important risk factor for severity and mortality due to COVID-19, pointing to the need for specific attention to this group of patients and further research in the area.

Keywords : Obesity; Overweight; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; Risk Factors.

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