CORRELATION OF OBESITY AND COVID 19

While the 2 nd wave of pandemic is subsiding gradually, we should be further more careful & follow the safety protocols to prevent the onset of another wave. Particularly, people who are in high-risk category should be more cautious than ever. Being overweight puts people at risk for many serious chronic diseases and also increases the risk of severe illness from COVID-19. At STAR Hospitals, we are committed to bring forth few insightful medical facts to create awareness for the wellbeing of our society says " Dr. B. Narsaiah, MS, FAIS, FICS, FMAS, Laparo-Endoscopic & Bariatric Surgeon, Star Hospitals

A BMI CLASSIFIES ONE AS:

 Underweight < BMI 18.5
 Normal weight: BMI 18.5-24.9
 Overweight: BMI 25-29.9
 Obesity Class I: BMI 30-34.9
 Obesity Class II: BMI 35-39.9
 Obesity Class III: BMI 40-49.9
 Super Obesity: BMI 50 and above

PRIMARY RISK FACTORS

 With increasing BMI, the risk of infection, hospitalization & intensive care unit admission increases proportionately
 Increases the susceptibility to infection from different pathogens
 It is associated with decreased pulmonary function, including decreased expiratory reserve volume
 It is linked with impaired immune function
 It may lead to a greater viral load and prolonged viremia
 Influences systemic cellular processes and is associated with inflammation
 In some cases, it contributes towards the initiation of “cytokine storm”

PREVENTIVE STEPS

Systemic change takes time, as does long-term weight loss. Individuals can help protect themselves and their families during this pandemic with few simple measures.

 Strictly abide by the safety guidelines issued by official authorities & government
 Stay indoors, do not step out unless it is an emergency
 Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains as well as the appropriate amount of calories
 Regular physical activity helps you feel better, and reduce anxiety. It can also help with preventing weight gain and when combined with calorie reduction, helps with weight loss
 Get enough sleep & rest well whenever you find time
 Do not get stressed out, stay calm & maintain peace

Over time, these actions can help individuals with obesity improve their overall health and eventually, it can help them to stay safe from Covid-19. At Star Hospitals, we have been providing numerous weight loss programs. The Department of Bariatric Surgery has proven to be one of the leading centres, with a team of highly specialized consultants, allied specialists and dieticians, providing better outcomes and improved quality life for obese patients. Dedicated before and after surgery teams look after the patients throughout the patients’ weight loss journey, from making that first decision to providing ongoing weight loss support and advice post the surgery. Our weight loss programs are a mix of most advanced knowledge and technology, extensive experience and highest level of compassion. We perform different types of weight loss surgeries with the utmost care and concern.

Book Appointment:  Dr. B. Narsaiah, MS, FAIS, FICS, FMAS, Laparo-Endoscopic & Bariatric Surgeon, Star Hospitals