Being Overweight And A Fast Food Diet Features On Top, In COVID-19 Risk Profiling Study By RAK Hospital

A recent COVID-19 risk profiling study conducted by Arabian Wellness, RAK Hospital’s Lifestyle and Wellness Division has found that about 17% people among those studied are at high-risk and 82% at medium-risk of getting the disease due to various health conditions making them more vulnerable.

The study which was conducted to assess an individuals’ risk of contracting  COVID-19 covered 3,277 people in Ras Al Khaimah.

The WHO and numerous research studies have identified several risk factors that make an individual more susceptible to contacting Covid 19. These include age over 50 years, having co-morbidities, living in crowded conditions, etc. With regards to the contributing risk factors in the population studied, being overweight came on top at 62%, followed by a fast food diet (51%), smoking (45%), being over 50 years( 40%) and cardiac ailments ( 33%) respectively.

Lack of physical activity (26%) and diabetes (23%) were other factors contributing to the increased risk.

“People with high risk factors are more likely to need hospitalization, hence as a strategy to combat COVID-19, it becomes imperative to gather this vital information. We counseled all 3,277 participants after assessment, in order to provide the high-risk individuals with a better prevention approach. We have also been  educating the community with proper medical guidance by giving talks about taking precautions, hence reducing their risk for severe illness”, commented Dr Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director, RAK Hospital.

High Risk individuals are persons with reduced immunity, which makes them vulnerable to the Covid 19 infection. While high risk persons have a higher susceptibility; COVID-19 can affect anyone, and can cause symptoms ranging from mild to very severe in adults of any age.  Certain underlying medical conditions including, Cardiac ailments, High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Respiratory problems, compromised immunity, etc, result in increased risk of severe illness leading to hospitalization, admission to the ICU, intubation and even death.

“Our idea is to help all individuals, especially high risk individuals, to take proactive measures in order to reduce the chances of getting the infection”, said Prof Adrian Kennedy, Chief Wellness Officer, Arabian Wellness and Lifestyle Management.