The effect of race, socioeconomic status, and comorbidity on patients afflicted with COVID 19: A Local Perspective

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Disparities in COVID-19 outcomes based on race and socioeconomic status have been observed globally.
• Understanding the interplay of these factors is crucial for targeted public health interventions.
• Previous studies suggest a complex relationship between race, socioeconomic status, and COVID-19 severity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the associations between race, socioeconomic factors, and COVID-19 health outcomes.
• To determine if race or socioeconomic status are independent predictors of severe COVID-19 outcomes.
• To identify risk factors for invasive mechanical ventilation and in-hospital mortality in COVID-19 patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of 309 adult patients with confirmed COVID-19.
• Data collected from Tulane Medical Center, New Orleans, LA, between March 9 and May 29, 2020.
• Multivariate analysis to assess risk factors for invasive mechanical ventilation and in-hospital mortality.

Main Results:

• Black patients presented with more risk factors (younger, female, obese, unemployed, underinsured) compared to white patients.
• After controlling for common risk factors, race was not associated with increased risk for invasive mechanical ventilation or mortality.
• Increased age (≥65 years), obesity, and higher comorbidity burden were associated with increased risk for invasive mechanical ventilation and mortality.

Conclusions:

• Race and socioeconomic factors may influence COVID-19 infection risk but not necessarily in-hospital health outcomes.
• Higher COVID-19 infection and mortality rates in vulnerable populations are likely explained by lower socioeconomic status and subsequent higher comorbidity.
• Prioritizing community health initiatives is essential for addressing disparities in COVID-19 outcomes.