Apocalyptic COVID-19 mortality and BMI: a J-shape relationship?

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) infection presents varied clinical outcomes.
• Obesity and undernutrition, indicated by Body Mass Index (BMI), are significant global health concerns.
• The interplay between nutritional status and infectious disease severity requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight Body Mass Index (BMI) as a critical determinant of vulnerability in SARS-COV-2 infection.
• To emphasize the need for national authorities to integrate BMI data into public health planning.
• To underscore the importance of nutrition in preventing severe COVID-19 outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of existing data linking Body Mass Index (BMI) to SARS-COV-2 infection severity.
• Review of epidemiological trends related to obesity, undernutrition, and COVID-19 outcomes.
• Synthesis of scientific literature on nutritional status and immune response.

Main Results:

• Body Mass Index (BMI) emerged as the strongest indicator for identifying frail or vulnerable individuals during SARS-COV-2 infection.
• Both obesity and undernutrition (phenotypic criteria of undernutrition) are associated with increased risk.
• BMI data is crucial for effective preventive measures and vaccination strategies.

Conclusions:

• National health authorities must incorporate BMI into planning to mitigate COVID-19 mortality.
• Enhanced understanding of nutrition's role is vital for public health and preventing severe COVID-19.
• Addressing nutritional status is essential for managing infectious disease outbreaks.