The parallel lives of pandemics: COVID‑19 and obesity.

Vasiliki Epameinondas Georgakopoulou, Ioannis G Lempesis, Demetrios A Spandidos
Author Information
  1. Vasiliki Epameinondas Georgakopoulou: Department of Pathophysiology, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece.
  2. Ioannis G Lempesis: Department of Pathophysiology, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece.
  3. Demetrios A Spandidos: Laboratory of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece.

Abstract

The present article discusses the interconnectedness of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and obesity as global health crises. The similarities between the two conditions are highlighted; these include shared risk factors and comorbidities, and the impact of obesity on the immune system. The present article also mentions the challenges faced in combating both pandemics, including misinformation and prejudice against obesity. It discusses the development of therapeutic medications and vaccines for COVID-19 and the potential of injectable incretin analogues for weight loss. Socioeconomic issues are also addressed, with obesity being more prevalent in lower socioeconomic groups and the cost of obesity treatments being a barrier for those in need. The present article emphasizes the need for comprehensive and sustainable solutions, including public health interventions, education, policy changes and equitable distribution of resources, to address both COVID-19 and obesity.

Keywords

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