The Effect of Sex Hormone on COVID-19: Analysis of Laboratory-Confirmed 5061 Patients in South Korea

This study analyzed the effect of sex hormones on COVID-19 among 5061 laboratory-confirmed patients in South Korea. It found that COVID-19 was most prevalent in women aged 20-39, but men were more likely to require oxygen therapy, be admitted to intensive care, and have longer ICU stays. However, mortality rates did not significantly differ between sexes. Independent risk factors for mortality were older age and underlying co-morbidities, not sex. A subgroup analysis on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women showed no significant impact on clinical outcomes. The study concluded that sex hormones may not have affected the prevalence and clinical outcomes of COVID-19 in South Korea.