Statistical Study on the Effect of Covid-19 on Patients with Chronic Diseases and Role of Radiological Diagnosis in Tobruk City

COVID-19, a viral respiratory disease first identified in December 2019, rapidly emerged as a global public health threat. A deeper understanding of the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 and community risk perception is essential for developing effective, targeted interventions to reduce its spread and severity. This study aimed to examine the association between chronic diseases and severe outcomes among patients with COVID-19 infection, based on radiological diagnosis. A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult patients at Alhia Center, Tobruk, Libya, from 23 July to 30 August 2020. Logistic regression analyses (both univariable and multivariable) were performed to identify associations between chronic diseases and COVID-19 outcomes, with results presented as adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The study included 151 patients (82 females and 69 males). Diagnostic methods included clinical examination, radiographic imaging, swab tests, and rapid tests. A total of 23 deaths were recorded. This study contributes to the understanding of how pre-existing chronic conditions may influence the severity of COVID-19