Exploring the Impact of Visceral Fat and Subcutaneous Fat on Disease Severity and Outcome in Hospitalized Covid-19 Patients

Abstract

Abstract Background Obesity's connection to Covid-19 severity has prompted investigation into its impact on the immune system. Purpose This study explores the relationship between visceral and subcutaneous fat and disease outcomes in Covid-19 patients. Methods The study involved 318 hospitalized Covid-19 patients, including 161 women. Lung CT scans assessed lung involvement and measured visceral and subcutaneous fat levels. The ratio of visceral fat to subcutaneous fat was calculated. Patient files were reviewed for ICU hospitalization and mortality rates. SPSS16 software was used for data analysis. Results Age significantly influenced disease outcomes (p = 0.001). Men had higher mean visceral fat (117.55 ± 51.56), while women had higher mean subcutaneous fat (175.93 ± 79.79) (p < 0.001). The over-50 age group had significantly higher mean visceral fat (p = 0.021). Higher mean visceral and subcutaneous fat correlated with longer hospital stays (p < 0.05). However, no significant associations were found between fat measures, lung involvement severity, ICU hospitalization, or mortality (p > 0.05). Conclusion Age was significantly linked to disease severity and mortality in hospitalized Covid-19 patients. Visceral fat correlated with longer hospital stays, but not with lung involvement, ICU hospitalization, or mortality. High lung involvement was associated with greater subcutaneous fat, but not significantly. Subcutaneous fat levels were lower in ICU patients and had lower mortality rates, although not statistically significant.