Comparative characterisation of COVID-19 patients with hypertension comorbidity in Malawi: a 1:2 matched

Master R O Chisale1, Billy W Nyambalo2, Collins Mitambo2

  • 1Biological Sciences Department, Mzuzu University, Mzuzu, Malawi.

IJID Regions
|June 20, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Hypertensive patients with COVID-19 in Malawi faced higher mortality risks, especially with increasing age and comorbidities like HIV and TB. Identifying these risk factors is crucial for better clinical outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hypertension is a significant global health concern.
  • COVID-19 has disproportionately affected individuals with pre-existing conditions.
  • Understanding mortality risk factors in hypertensive COVID-19 patients is critical for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize COVID-19 cases in Malawi.
  • To explore risk factors for mortality among hypertensive patients with COVID-19.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective case-control study design.
  • Inclusion of 441 patients (1:2 case-to-control ratio), matched by age.
  • Analysis of clinical data and comorbidities.

Main Results:

  • Higher COVID-19 mortality rates were observed in hypertensive patients.
  • Hypertensive patients exhibited more severe symptoms compared to non-hypertensive individuals.
  • Mortality risk increased with age and was associated with comorbidities (HIV, TB, cardiovascular, liver disease).

Conclusions:

  • Identified predictive factors for mortality in hypertensive COVID-19 patients.
  • Findings can inform healthcare policy and clinical practice for high-risk individuals.
  • Recommendations for tailored treatment approaches to improve patient outcomes.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:30

Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Hypertension is asymptomatic and also referred to as the "silent killer" until it progresses to a severe stage or causes target organ disease. Patients may experience symptoms stemming from the strain on blood vessels and tissues in various organs or the heart's increased workload.Physical exams might show no abnormalities other than high blood pressure. Signs of vascular damage, when present, correspond to the organs supplied by the affected vessels, leading to target organ damage. For...
48
Hypertension I: Introduction01:28

Hypertension I: Introduction

Hypertension is a widespread, long-term medical condition where blood pressure in the arteries remains elevated. It is characterized by systolic blood pressure readings of 130 mm Hg or above or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) readings of 80 mm Hg or higher. Unmanaged hypertension poses significant health risks, making the distinction between primary (or essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension crucial, as their management and implications vary.Primary HypertensionPrimary hypertension,...
71
Hypertension II: Pathophysiology01:29

Hypertension II: Pathophysiology

Hypertension is a chronic condition in which the blood's force against artery walls is excessively high, posing risks such as heart disease. The condition's underlying mechanisms involve complex interactions among the cardiovascular, kidney, and autonomic nervous systems.Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS): This system significantly influences blood pressure regulation. When blood pressure decreases, the kidneys secrete renin. This enzyme transforms angiotensinogen, a plasma protein,...
71
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure01:18

Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure

Hypertension, the most common cardiovascular disease, is diagnosed through repeated measurements of elevated blood pressure. Its risks, including damage to the kidney, heart, and brain, are directly proportional to blood pressure levels. Starting from 115/75 mm Hg, the risk of cardiovascular disease doubles with each increment of 20/10 mm Hg. The diagnosis relies on blood pressure measurements, not on patient symptoms, as hypertension is often asymptomatic until end-organ damage is imminent or...
3.1K
Hypertension V: Nursing Management01:23

Hypertension V: Nursing Management

The nursing management of hypertension involves accurately assessing symptoms, making a comprehensive nursing diagnosis, collaborating with patients to set goals, and implementing targeted interventions to mitigate the condition's impact and improve patient well-being.Comprehensive AssessmentThe initial step in nursing care for hypertension involves a thorough patient assessment. It includes evaluating symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and previous hypertension episodes.
41
Hypertension IV: Drug Therapy and Lifestyle Modifications01:28

Hypertension IV: Drug Therapy and Lifestyle Modifications

Multiple classes of antihypertensive medications are employed in treating hypertension. The most commonly recommended first-line treatments include:Thiazide Diuretics, such as chlorthalidone, increase sodium and water excretion from the body, reducing blood volume and blood pressure.Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, like lisinopril, block the conversion of angiotensin I to II, a potent vasoconstrictor lowering blood pressure.Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) prevent angiotensin II...
36