Conquering obesity and the COVID-19 pandemic that is going on now isn’t easy; it is literally trying to tell someone to face their worst nightmares and inner demons. We all have our personal problems that we face every day, and being overweight isn’t any different. To me, the best way to face obesity is to understand the science and statistics of it.
Studies have shown that obese people have an increased susceptibility and infectivity to COVID-19. This is because they already have a low oxygen level and breathing problems in the lungs, and the virus can spread from the air. A weak lung can result in an increased chance of getting Coronavirus due to its inability to fight the virus.[1]
To make matters worse, it is hard to tell if obese people caught Coronavirus. When one goes to the doctors, the doctors will have trouble giving one diagnosis due to their weight and positioning. They may also need an extra oxygen supply tube.[2]
About Coronavirus
Coronavirus, also called SARS-CoV-2, is a virus that was first transmitted from an animal to a human. This virus could have then got transmitted from human to human (origins of COVID-19).
- This pathogen can be spread when a person coughs or sneezes in the air; the droplets from the cough and sneeze get airborne and travel a few short feet before dropping to the ground. Right now (May 2020), in the United States, there are around 43,000 confirmed cases and 1,700 deaths. That is a death rate of 4% (1,700/43,000).
- The Coronavirus symptoms include cough, fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches, sore throat, loss of taste/smell, diarrhea, headache.
- If you experience any of these symptoms, please call your doctor right away.
As of Jan 2021, there are over 24 million cases and 400,000 deaths from SARS-CoV-2 in the U.S. alone.
Primary Risk Factors of COVID-19
Are you at a higher risk of COVID-19 than others? COVID-19 affects people of different races and ages with a wide range of symptoms. Here are the major risk factors of individuals who have a higher chance of contracting this disease: [3]
- Obesity
- People 65 years or older
- Diabetes
- Asthma
- Chronic lung disease
- Heart conditions
- Kidney diseases
- Liver diseases
- People who work in nursing and human care facilities
What Defines Obesity and Severe Obesity?
Obesity is defined as a condition when a person carries an excessive weight that negatively impacts their health. Health Problems relating to obesity: Diabetes, Asthma, Lung Disease, Heart Conditions, Kidney Diseases, Liver Diseases. A high BMI, generally beyond 30, may suggest a person is obese. A BMI (Body Mass Index) can measure if a person is obese based on their height and weight.
- BMI of 20 to 24.9 is Normal.
- BMI of 25 to 29.9 is Overweight.
- BMI of 30+ is Obese.
- BMI of 40+ is Morbidly Obese.
How to Prevent COVID-19 and Reduce Your Risk?
- Keep a good distance from everyone when going out.
- Eat Healthy and have proper nutrition.
- Exercise frequently to have a stronger immune system.
- Clean your house frequently to prevent the spread of the virus.
- Wash your hands with soap often. Use the 20 seconds rule.
- Wear a mask and gloves when going out.
- Stay at home as much as you can.
What to do if I have COVID-19?
If you or anybody has contracted coronavirus, please call your doctor immediately for assistance. See above for the major symptoms. If you have common symptoms such as a cough or cold, don’t be too alarmed but call your doctor to make sure you are alright.
Take Away
Coronavirus may be around forever and we may have to live with COVID permanently. We have to learn to deal with this deadly disease; wear masks, social distancing, avoid indoor crowds, vaccinate, and stay healthy!
Cure your obesity and its associated underlying medical issues with bariatric surgery, such as gastric sleeve or RNY gastric bypass!
Related: