The relationship between COVID-19 and hyperglycemia: screening and monitoring hospitalized patients

Abstract Background Elevated blood glucose concentration, also known as hyperglycemia, has been identified as a significant factor influencing the prognosis of COVID-19, alongside the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 infection itself. Methods This research is a cross-sectional investigation that examined the relationship between COVID-19 and hyperglycemia in patients admitted to Afzalipour Hospital in Kerman, Iran, from July to September 2021. A standardized data sheet was used to capture demographic data (age, gender) and laboratory information (blood sugar, arterial blood oxygen saturation, and C-reactive protein (CRP)) upon admission. Results The present research evaluated a total of 300 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19, with an average age of 50.19 ± 15.55 years. Among these patients, the majority were male, accounting for 51.67% of the total. Hyperglycemia was seen in 21.67% of patients, but less than 20% had new-onset diabetes. Individuals exhibiting hyperglycemia were typical of advanced age ( P < 0.001). Furthermore, there was a slight but statistically significant association between advanced age and elevated blood glucose concentration ( R = 0.254, P < 0.001). Gender had no significant impact on the occurrence of hyperglycemia ( P = 0.199). There was no significant association between CRP levels and blood glucose concentration ( P = 0.524) or the incidence of hyperglycemia ( P = 0.473). Although there was no significant disparity in blood oxygen saturation between individuals with or without hyperglycemia ( P = 0.06), higher blood glucose concentration was correlated with lower blood oxygen saturation ( R = -0.151, P < 0.001). Conclusion Considering the correlation between blood glucose concentration, advanced age, and disease severity, it is recommended to carefully screen and monitor all COVID-19 patients for hyperglycemia and new-onset diabetes. Effective management of these complications could enhance the control of patients’ overall prognosis and subsequent complications.