Research Identifies Risk Factors that Predict COVID-19 Hospitalizations among People with Lupus
Similar to the general population, recent data analysis finds that non-white race, the presence of at least one co-occurring illness and body mass index (BMI) are independent predictors of COVID-19-related hospitalization among people with lupus.
People with lupus and people with confirmed cases of COVID-19 were identified through an established New York University lupus cohort, a search of two hospital systems and rheumatologists’ referrals. A total of 226 SLE patients were included in the study, 41 of whom had tested positive for COVID-19. Of those people with lupus and COVID-19, over half (59%) required hospitalization, four required a high level of care in an intensive care unit, and four died. Hospitalized patients tended to be older, non‐white, Hispanic/Latino, have higher BMI, history of nephritis (kidney disease), and at least one co-occurring illness.
While more research is needed to understand any additional risk factors for poor COVID-19 outcomes in people with lupus, the latest findings underscore how race, BMI and co-occurring illnesses increase vulnerability to the novel coronavirus. The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) is closely tracking COVID-19 news. Continue to follow LFA for further developments and recommendations and learn more about the latest news and resources here.