7th Annual Association for Bariatric Endoscopy (ABE) Meeting: Comprehensive Care of the Patient with Obesity – Endoscopy and Beyond! | May 2022-COVID-19 and Obesity-Management of the Obese Patient in theCOVID-19 Era

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The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on patients with obesity. Severe obesity is considered a recognized risk factor for COVID-19, leading to more severe illness and increased mortality. Studies have shown that a large portion of adult COVID-19 hospitalizations in the United States can be attributed to obesity. Patients with obesity are more likely to require ventilator dependency, experience severe courses of the disease, and have a higher mortality rate.<br /><br />Various factors contribute to the increased severity of COVID-19 in patients with obesity. These include altered immune function, increased inflammation, platelet activation, and endothelial dysfunction, which are already present in individuals with obesity. Furthermore, obesity can have detrimental effects on lung function, making it more difficult for patients to maintain proper oxygenation.<br /><br />The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to weight gain among individuals, with approximately 42% of U.S. adults reporting unwanted weight gain since the start of the pandemic, with an average gain of 29 pounds. Marginalized groups, such as those in food deserts, have been more affected. Pediatric obesity has also increased during the pandemic, particularly among Hispanic, Black, lower-income, and publicly insured children.<br /><br />Telemedicine has seen a rise in usage during the pandemic, and it is likely here to stay. However, the pandemic has also disrupted access to care, including endoscopic and surgical treatments for obesity. This has resulted in a backlog of untreated cases and a negative impact on the overall obesity pandemic.<br /><br />In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected patients with obesity. It is crucial to understand the link between obesity and COVID-19 severity and to treat patients with obesity seriously rather than stigmatizing them further. The pandemic has also highlighted the importance of telemedicine and the need to address the barriers to accessing care for patients with obesity.

Asset Subtitle

Reem Sharaiha, MD

Keywords

COVID-19 pandemic

patients with obesity

severe obesity

risk factor

increased mortality

ventilator dependency

altered immune function

lung function

weight gain

telemedicine