The impact of diabetes and obesity on the severity and mortality of SARS-CoV-2 infection

Purpose of review The purpose of the study was to collect and summarise information available in the scientific literature on the probable reasons that lead to negative outcomes of COVID-19 in patients with pre-existing obesity and /or type 2 diabetes mellitus and influence on their treatment as also mortality. Recent findings During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was observed that disease severity is often correlated with existing comorbidities, mainly in older obese male patients. SARS-CoV-2-infected patients with chronic diseases required hospitalisation more often and their overall prognosis is worse. The following review describes the impact of obesity and diabetes on the SARS-CoV-2 infection course and mortality risk. Summary Diabetes and obesity have a multifactorial impact on the risk of SARS-CoV-2 virus infection, as well as on the nature and dynamics of the development of the infection. In turn, the presence of these diseases significantly increased the risk of requiring intensified treatment, complications and ultimately death. Limited access to medical care systems due to the pandemic and the impact on everyday activities made it even more difficult to control diabetes and obesity, leading to the deterioration of patient’s condition and the occurrence of new cases of disease. Therefore, it is necessary not only to appropriately modify treatment of those already infected, but also to use appropriate prevention to reduce the number of potential high-risk patients.