The spread of coronavirus has sent waves of panic and uncertainty across the globe with countries under lockdown, people confined in their homes, economies on the decline, and many in despair.
With our health care workers and government taking all possible measures to contain the virus and restore normalcy, at individual level it is important for us to understand risk factors of coronavirus and take necessary measures to keep the virus at bay.
This virus infects people of all ages. However, evidence to date suggests that a few groups of people are at a higher risk of getting severe COVID-19 disease. These groups include:
People suffering from morbid Obesity
Older people (that is people over 60 years old). People with underlying medical conditions like Diabetes, cardiac disease. Why Corona has got a higher mortality and moribidity rates in Obese people. Also, ICU admissions after corona infection are higher in Obese subjects.
Let us understand this WHY?
Obese subjects have a lower immune system.
Obese patients are more prone to Diabetes- both put together can be more lethal in case of Corona infection.
Obese people are more prone to Hypertension and cardiac disease.
Obesity causes Hypoventilation of lungs- means that oxygen saturation in obese people is less as compared to thin people. Once obese people get CORONA- chances for them to get PNEUMONIA is much more in comparison to thinner subjects.
AND PNEMONIC PATIENTS IN CORONA MAY GO ON VENTILATOR.
Once an obese patient is on the ventilator, they require more machine (ventilator) support than thinner subjects- the reason being there weight which doesn’t allow the lung to expand when oxygen is forced inside there lungs by a ventilator- RESULT- Pneumonia may increase resulting in Mortality.
Many obese people were already crippling under daily challenges caused by obesity and the current crisis has exposed their limitations even more. In addition to that, the current pandemic might contribute to an increase in obesity rates as gyms are closed outdoor activities are closed.
No office- all day sitting at home allows everyone to eat more- results in an increase in your weight.
More junk food in our meals.
WHO has issued advice for these groups at higher risk on coronavirus and for community support to ensure that they are protected from COVID-19 without being isolated, stigmatized, left in a position of increased vulnerability or unable to access basic provisions and social care
Healthy food habits, regular exercise, weight control and life style changes can help prevent obesity.
In non Pandemic days (non Covid days) it is always recommended to consult for Bariatric/obesity/weight loss surgery because it helps you to reduce your weight, control your diabetes and improves your cardiac status.
In these times of crisis, NObesity stands with you to combat the evils of coronavirus and obesity lurking in our society and ensure good health for all.
For any assistance you can reach our experts on call. Connect with us at +91- 9925558543
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