A SYSTEMATIC review and meta-analysis of over 4 million individuals highlights the severe impact of COVID-19 on people with multiple long-term conditions (MLTCs). Conducted across 51 countries, the study shows that individuals with MLTCs face significantly higher risks of mortality, hospitalisation, severe disease, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and mechanical ventilation compared to those without MLTCs.
The analysis, which included 111 observational studies conducted between January 2020 and May 2023, revealed stark disparities in outcomes. Patients with MLTCs had over twice the risk of death (risk ratio [RR]: 2.61), hospitalisation (RR: 2.4), and severe disease (RR: 2.61). They were also more likely to require ICU admission (RR: 1.22) and mechanical ventilation (RR: 1.83). The impact was particularly pronounced among children and young people with MLTCs, who experienced even higher pooled risk ratios for adverse outcomes.
The study also found that men were more likely than women to require ICU admission and mechanical ventilation, with significant associations observed in meta-regression analyses. The majority of studies defined MLTCs as having two or more chronic conditions, with others using indices like the Charlson Comorbidity Index or Clinical Frailty Score.
These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted public health strategies and interventions to protect individuals with MLTCs from the direct effects of COVID-19. The study calls for prioritising preventative care and tailored clinical management for this vulnerable population to reduce the burden of severe outcomes.
Reference
Salisu-Olatunji SO et al. COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality in people with multiple long-term conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis of over 4 million people. J R Soc Med. 2024;117(10):336-51.
