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The EPICOVID19-BS study: a web-based epidemiological survey in bariatric patients
F Prinelli1, F Adorni2, A Giovanelli3
1Epidemiology and Public Health Unit, Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Via Fratelli Cervi 93, 20054, Segrate, MI, Italy. federica.prinelli@itb.cnr.it.
Journal of Endocrinological Investigation
|June 10, 2024
Summary
Patients undergoing bariatric surgery (BS) showed a low rate of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study highlights the importance of monitoring obesity management in this population during pandemics.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bariatric Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Severe/extreme obesity is a significant comorbidity associated with increased COVID-19 severity.
- Understanding SARS-CoV-2 infection dynamics in patients undergoing bariatric surgery (BS) is crucial for patient management and public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the occurrence and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) in patients undergoing bariatric surgery.
- To evaluate the frequency of symptoms, clinical manifestations, and behaviors associated with COVID-19 in this specific patient group.
Main Methods:
- An observational, cross-sectional study (EPICOVID19-BS) was conducted in Italy during the second COVID-19 wave (September 2021-February 2022).
- 745 patients with severe/extreme obesity undergoing BS completed an online questionnaire, providing clinical information and blood biochemistry data.
- COVID-19 positivity was determined by nasopharyngeal swab and/or serological tests; sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral characteristics were compared between positive and negative cases.
Main Results:
- 20.4% of participants tested positive for COVID-19. Positive cases were more likely to be healthcare workers, have close contacts with infected individuals, use anti-inflammatory drugs, have immune disorders, prior CMV infection, lower cholesterol, and less metabolic syndrome.
- Infected participants increased their use of national health resources for minor health issues. Most experienced flu-like symptoms and taste/smell disturbances.
- Hospitalization occurred in 9.6% of infected patients, with no cases requiring intubation, suggesting a low rate of severe outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest that patients undergoing bariatric surgery have a low rate of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Further longitudinal studies across multiple obesity treatment centers are recommended to effectively monitor and manage obesity in this population during health crises.
