COVID-19 in Adult Patients With Pre-Existing Chronic Cardiac, Respiratory, and Metabolic Disease: A Critical Literature Review With Clinical Recommendations

The review from 2020 analyzed the impact of COVID-19 on patients with pre-existing chronic conditions, such as cardiac, respiratory, and metabolic diseases, highlighting their increased risk for severe outcomes. It found that conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity were significant risk factors, with older patients facing higher mortality rates. The use of ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers was debated, but not recommended for discontinuation. The pandemic disrupted routine medical care, emphasizing the need for telemedicine. The review also noted the mental health toll and suggested a potential link between male pattern baldness and severe COVID-19. It called for further research to protect vulnerable patients and manage chronic conditions during future COVID-19 waves.