The Effect of Age and Gender on COVID-19 Infection Severity: Insights From Biochemical and Hematological Parameters in Older Men

Background: The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted global health, revealing pronounced differences in disease outcomes across various demographic groups. By analyzing biochemical and hematological parameters, this study sought to gain insights into the pathophysiological processes underpining the increased risk faced by older individuals and men and to identify potential biomarkers that could guide clinical management and therapeutic strategies. It aimed to investigate how people of different age and gender groups behave with respect to biochemical and hematological parameters in COVID-19 in surviving and non-surviving groups. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted from 2020 to 2021. All confirmed COVID-19 cases were divided into surviving and non-surviving groups. Data for important COVID-19 parameters, including D-dimer, creatinine, lactate dehydrogenase, ferritin, C-reactive protein, platelet count, absolute neutrophil count, and absolute lymphocyte count, were collected, along with important hematological ratios, such as neutrophil lymphocyte ratio, platelet lymphocyte ratio, and systemic inflammatory index. The data were analyzed using SPSS 22. Results and Conclusion: Our results confirmed that both age and gender are significant predictors of COVID-19 outcomes. The study highlights the need for tailored approaches in the management of COVID-19. Older patients and males should be closely monitored for biomarkers indicative of severe disease, and gender-specific considerations should be integrated into treatment strategies. Additionally, this can aid in developing targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes.