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Inpatient Hospitalizations for COVID-19 Among Patients with Prader-Willi Syndrome: a National Inpatient Sample
James Luccarelli1,2, Theresa V Strong3, Emily B Rubin1,2
1Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
Patients with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) face higher risks of severe COVID-19 outcomes, including longer hospital stays and increased mortality. This genetic disorder necessitates targeted protective measures and vaccination for this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Genetics
- Infectious diseases
Background:
- Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic disorder often linked to respiratory issues.
- Previous surveys suggested unexpectedly mild COVID-19 in PWS patients.
- This study investigates COVID-19 hospitalization outcomes in PWS individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare COVID-19 hospitalization outcomes between patients with and without Prader-Willi syndrome.
- To identify specific risks and complications associated with COVID-19 in the PWS population.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the National Inpatient Sample, a US all-payors claims database.
- Analyzed COVID-19 hospitalizations from 2020-2021.
- Employed Augmented Inverse Propensity Weighting (AIPW) for comparative analysis.
Main Results:
- PWS patients had shorter median age (33 vs. 63) and higher obesity rates (47.5% vs. 28.4%).
- PWS was associated with longer hospital stays (+7.43 days), higher charges (+$80,126), and increased odds of mechanical ventilation (OR 1.79) and death (OR 1.67).
Conclusions:
- Hospitalized PWS patients experienced more severe COVID-19 outcomes.
- Prader-Willi syndrome should be recognized as a risk factor for severe COVID-19.
- Continued protective measures and vaccination are crucial for this vulnerable group; further research is warranted.
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