5 Health Conditions That Put You at Higher Risk for COVID-19

Introduction

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, there is a growing concern about which people are most at risk. It is established that older adults and people of any age with underlying medical conditions are more likely to develop severe illness from COVID-19. In this article, we will discuss five health conditions that put you at higher risk for COVID-19.

1. Cardiovascular Disease

People suffering from heart diseases, including hypertension, appear to be at a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 infection. The underlying cardiovascular disease caused by hypertension, coronary artery diseases, and heart failure damage the heart muscles and increase the patients’ vulnerability to a viral attack.

2. Diabetes

Individuals with diabetes are more likely to develop severe complications from COVID-19. This is because high blood sugar levels can impair the immune system response, making it harder for the body to fight against the invading virus.

3. Obesity

Obesity can lead to serious metabolic and cardiovascular complications, increasing the risk of hospitalization and death from COVID-19. This is because obesity is often accompanied by underlying health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, which can further complicate the treatment and management of COVID-19.

4. Chronic Respiratory Diseases

People who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, or other chronic respiratory diseases are at higher risk of severe COVID-19 infection. This is because respiratory diseases compromise the body’s natural defense mechanisms against the virus, making it more difficult to fight against the invading virus.

5. Cancer and Immune-suppressed States

Individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or with other immune-suppressive conditions such as HIV infection or autoimmune disease are at higher risk of severe COVID-19. This is because cancer treatments and immune suppressors used in treating autoimmune diseases weaken the body’s immune system, increasing the risk of severe infections.

Conclusion

While anyone can develop severe COVID-19 infection, people with underlying health conditions are more vulnerable to the virus’s impact. It is essential to take extra precautions if you have any of the health conditions mentioned above. Follow the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to protect yourself and those around you, including wearing masks, social distancing, and practicing good hand hygiene.