Insights Into Disparities Observed With COVID-19

The document discussed the disparities in COVID-19 infection and severity, identifying age, co-morbidities, race/ethnicity, and gender as key risk factors. Older age, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease increased risk. African Americans and Native Americans in the U.S. were particularly vulnerable, with socio-economic factors contributing to co-morbidities. Male gender was also a risk factor, potentially due to androgen-related expression of ACE2 receptors and TMPRSS2, which facilitate infection. The study found no evidence linking racial/ethnic differences to ABO blood groups, ACE inhibitors, or SARS-CoV-2 spike protein variations. Understanding these disparities was crucial for addressing COVID-19 risk differences.