# Glycemic Control Status After Six Months in Post-COVID-19 Patients

## TL;DR

This study found that severe cases of COVID-19 are linked to a higher risk of developing diabetes six months later.

## Contribution

The study identifies a significant association between severe COVID-19 and new-onset diabetes after six months.

## Key findings

- 12 new diabetes cases (15.4%) were observed six months after initial diagnosis.
- Severe COVID-19 was associated with a 5.5-fold higher risk of diabetes after six months.
- Males accounted for 62% of new diabetes cases among post-COVID-19 patients.

## Abstract

Background

Despite being typically a viral respiratory disease, COVID-19 has harmful effects that go beyond the respiratory system. The endocrine system is particularly susceptible to damage due to the high expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 receptors. This study evaluates glycemic status in survivors of COVID-19.

Methodology

In this prospective, observational study, 96 individuals were enrolled from the COVID-19 unit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). Mild and moderate COVID-19 patients were classified as non-severe, whereas severe and critical cases were classified as severe, following the WHO disease severity classification. Follow-ups were conducted at the post-COVID-19 clinic at BSMMU one and six months after diagnosis. Blood samples for fasting blood sugar and glycated hemoglobin measurements were collected within 24 hours of initial diagnosis and during each follow-up at the first and sixth months.

Results

Of the 96 participants, the non-severe and severe groups consisted of 49 (51%) and 47 (49%) participants, respectively. Among the participants, 62 (63.9%) were men, the mean age was 54.2 (15.9) years, and hypertension was the most common comorbidity (37, 38.5%). After six months, 12 new cases of diabetes (15.4%) were observed, with a male predominance (10, 62%). After adjusting for potential confounders, we found that severe COVID-19 was substantially linked to a higher risk of diabetes at six months (odds ratio = 5.5, 95% confidence interval, 1.1-27.7, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

The study findings showed a significant association between a higher frequency of diabetes and severe COVID-19.