Even mild COVID-19 symptoms are more common for those who are overweight

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2021-10-20 15:01

International

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Teens and adults who are overweight or obese are more likely to have harsher and longer-lasting symptoms if they have a mild case of COVID-19, according to international research. Following on from global research that shows those who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of severe COVID-19, the researchers looked at the symptoms of just under 500 people who tested positive for COVID-19 and compared them to their Body Mass Index (BMI). They say those who were classified as overweight or obese were more likely to have symptoms. They were significantly more likely to have a cough, shortness of breath and a loss of taste or smell, the researchers say. Children under 12 had fewer symptoms overall, with no significant difference in symptoms related to BMI categories, they add.

Media release

From: Wiley

Does weight affect COVID-19 symptoms in individuals with mild forms of COVID-19?

Obesity is associated with severe outcomes among hospitalized individuals with COVID-19. A new study published in Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses indicates that overweight and obesity may also impact symptoms in patients with mild forms of COVID-19.

The study included 522 adults and children who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 as outpatients. Adolescents and adults with overweight or obesity experienced more symptoms, especially respiratory symptoms of cough and shortness of breath, compared with other individuals.

“The data underscore the need to ensure COVID-19 vaccination of individuals with overweight and obesity,” said senior author Pia S. Pannaraj, MD, MPH, of the University of Southern California.

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Journal/
conference: Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses

Research:Paper

Organisation/s: Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, USA

Funder: This work was funded by NIH/NIAID U01AI144616-02S1.

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