Author:
Liu Zhenguo,Song Linnan,Chen Junling,Zhou Yongjun,Wang Yuhao,Tang Libo,Li Yongyin
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The relationship between chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been inconsistent in traditional observational studies.
Methods
We explored the total causal and direct causal associations between CHB and the three COVID-19 outcomes using univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses, respectively. Genome-wide association study datasets for CHB and COVID-19 were obtained from the Japan Biobank and the COVID-19 Host Genetics Initiative, respectively.
Results
Univariate MR analysis showed that CHB increased the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR = 1.04, 95% CI 1.01–1.07, P = 3.39E−03), hospitalized COVID-19 (OR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.06–1.13, P = 7.31E−08), and severe COVID-19 (OR = 1.16, 95%CI 1.08–1.26, P = 1.43E−04). A series of subsequent sensitivity analyses ensured the stability and reliability of these results. In multivariable MR analyses adjusting for type 2 diabetes, body mass index, basophil count, and smoking, genetically related CHB is still positively associated with increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.02–1.11, P = 1.44E−03) and hospitalized COVID-19 (OR = 1.12, 95% CI 1.07–1.16, P = 5.13E−07). However, the causal link between CHB and severe COVID-19 was attenuated after adjustment for the above variables. In addition, the MR analysis did not support the causal effect of COVID-19 on CHB.
Conclusions
This study provides evidence that CHB increases COVID-19 susceptibility and severity among individuals of East Asian ancestry.
Funder
the National Key Research and Development Program of China
the National Natural Science Foundation of China
the Outstanding Youth Development Scheme of Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
Infectious Diseases,Virology