COVID-19 deaths are more likely for individuals who meet certain criteria.

When news of COVID-19 hit the United States, doctors and researchers speculated regarding the demographics that would be particularly vulnerable.

The first population considered was the elderly.

Although an older age places one at greater risk of dying or becoming severely ill from COVID-19, it is not the only notable risk factor.

According to a recent Money Talk News article titled “Far More COVID-19 Deaths Occur in Places With This Trait,” your weight could put you at greater risk of dying from COVID-19.

Losing weight can decrease your risk factors for COVID-19 deaths.

The World Obesity Federation released a report noting that 2.2 million of the 2.5 million deaths attributed to COVID-19 came from countries wherein at least 50 percent of residents classified as overweight.

When compared to these nations, residents in countries with fewer than half of adult residents classified as overweight had about one-tenth the risk of dying.

How is "overweight" defined in these studies?

Overweight is defined as having a body mass index greater than 25 kg/m2.

Obese individuals are classified as those with a body mass index greater them 30 kg/m2.

Although there is certainly more research to be done, these numbers show a correlation between obesity and COVID-19 deaths.

According to the World Obesity Foundation report, obesity has been shown to make other illnesses worse.

Data from the past twenty years have connected obesity to greater risks from H1N1 influenza, MERS, and other influenza-type infections.

Another larger study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also found those with a higher body mass index had an increased risk of severe cases of COVID-19 and COVID-19 deaths.

Those who were overweight and obese were more likely to need a ventilator, require hospitalization, and die from the virus.

Being older than age 65 and overweight combines two risk factors, making such individuals particularly vulnerable.

As a sidebar, the Pfizer vaccine may be less effective for people who are obese or overweight.

Improving your diet and exercise regime can both impact your overall health and lower your risk of being counted in the COVID-19 deaths.

If that is not motivation to watch my fork and keep moving, then I do not know what is.

Reference: Money Talk News (March 10, 2021) “Far More COVID-19 Deaths Occur in Places With This Trait”