Diabetic Nephropathy and Obesity Influence COVID-19 Outcomes

Various comorbidities, including diabetes, have been recognized as risk factors for adverse outcomes among patients with COVID-19. Martin Schiller, MD, and colleagues conducted an analysis of data on 75 patients with COVID-19 treated at a community hospital in Germany. While focusing on diabetes mellitus, the researchers evaluated the impact of distinct comorbidities on the COVID-19 disease course.

Results were reported in the Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives [doi.org/10.1080/20009666.2021.1957555].

If diabetes was present, the duration of hospital stay was prolonged. There was an association between older age and poor outcomes. In the presence of congestive heart failure or chronic kidney disease, the percentage of non-survivors increased. Among the patients with diabetes, mortality increased if any organ complication was present. By far, the most important risk factors were diabetic nephropathy or the combination of obesity plus diabetes.

In summary, the researchers said, “Taken together, an older age, congestive heart failure, and chronic kidney disease significantly influenced COVID-19 disease course and survival. Diabetic nephropathy or the combination of obesity plus diabetes had the strongest impact on patients’ outcomes.”