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Sociodemographic and lifestyle-related risk factors for identifying vulnerable groups for type 2 diabetes: a narrative review with emphasis on data from Europe.
Kyrou, I, Tsigos, C, Mavrogianni, C, Cardon, G, Van Stappen, V, Latomme, J, Kivelä, J, Wikström, K, Tsochev, K, Nanasi, A, et al
BMC endocrine disorders. 2020;20(Suppl 1):134
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Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) results from progressive loss of insulin secretion, which is typically combined with various degrees of insulin resistance. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of key sociodemographic and lifestyle-related risk factors for identifying vulnerable groups for T2DM with emphasis on data from Europe. This study is a narrative review which includes 101 publications. Literature shows that prevention of T2DM should be a collaborative effort which mobilizes multiple partners/ stakeholders at a national and international (e.g. European) level. In addition, a holistic approach is becoming increasingly essential in order to put into effect multidimensional public health programs and integrated interventions for effective T2DM prevention which will take into account both traditional and socioeconomic/socioecological factors. Authors conclude that a multidimensional approach for the prevention of T2DM may have a broader impact against the current diabesity epidemic within and across countries in Europe.
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) comprises the vast majority of all diabetes cases in adults, with alarmingly increasing prevalence over the past few decades worldwide. A particularly heavy healthcare burden of diabetes is noted in Europe, where 8.8% of the population aged 20-79 years is estimated to have diabetes according to the International Diabetes Federation. Multiple risk factors are implicated in the pathogenesis of T2DM with complex underlying interplay and intricate gene-environment interactions. Thus, intense research has been focused on studying the role of T2DM risk factors and on identifying vulnerable groups for T2DM in the general population which can then be targeted for prevention interventions. METHODS For this narrative review, we conducted a comprehensive search of the existing literature on T2DM risk factors, focusing on studies in adult cohorts from European countries which were published in English after January 2000. RESULTS Multiple lifestyle-related and sociodemographic factors were identified as related to high T2DM risk, including age, ethnicity, family history, low socioeconomic status, obesity, metabolic syndrome and each of its components, as well as certain unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. As Europe has an increasingly aging population, multiple migrant and ethnic minority groups and significant socioeconomic diversity both within and across different countries, this review focuses not only on modifiable T2DM risk factors, but also on the impact of pertinent demographic and socioeconomic factors. CONCLUSION In addition to other T2DM risk factors, low socioeconomic status can significantly increase the risk for prediabetes and T2DM, but is often overlooked. In multinational and multicultural regions such as Europe, a holistic approach, which will take into account both traditional and socioeconomic/socioecological factors, is becoming increasingly crucial in order to implement multidimensional public health programs and integrated community-based interventions for effective T2DM prevention.
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Intellectual disability and nutrition-related health.
Kolset, SO
EMBO molecular medicine. 2020;12(10):e12899
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Certain inborn errors of metabolism have been linked to several conditions with intellectual disability (ID). Treating these preventable or treatable forms of ID require the support of experts in nutrition and medicine. However, nutritional measures and diet must be adjusted to the different syndromes and their inherent implications, which requires knowledge of ID in general, and of specific diagnosis groups in particular. In addition, challenging behaviour, lower cognitive functions, and capacity in daily-life activities translate into nutritional problems such as shopping, cooking and eating patterns, including snacking, that require systematic professional support. This study shows that the development of adapted mobile phone programs and apps will be of great value in interventions, educational studies and for persons with ID to help them manage their daily chores and their diet, particularly those with moderate and light ID. Addressing the multifaceted challenges of nutrition and health in persons with ID requires more research and increased priority from funding agencies, along with increased visibility and knowledge of the various forms of ID in general.
Abstract
Intellectual disability (ID) is a condition that affects approximately 1% of the population (Maulik et al, 2011). The numbers may differ across nations, owing to different systems and diagnosis entries or lack of such, but usually range between 0.6 and 3% (Stromme & Valvatne, 1998). Persons with ID are a heterogeneous group with different diagnoses and different levels of intellectual ability. These range from profound (IQ < 20) and serious ID (IQ 20-34) to moderate (IQ 35-49) and light ID (IQ 50-69); this roughly translates into the intellectual capacity of children between 3-12 years of age. More than 75% of persons with ID have the mild form and their intellectual capacity and potential may be underestimated in some cases if IQ is the only diagnostic criteria. However, the range in itself is an important factor to take into account when addressing nutrition and health issues. It is further important to recognize that ID is also a feature of several rare disorders, and many disorders not yet identified, adding to the complexity of this group.
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Enhancing immunity in viral infections, with special emphasis on COVID-19: A review.
Jayawardena, R, Sooriyaarachchi, P, Chourdakis, M, Jeewandara, C, Ranasinghe, P
Diabetes & metabolic syndrome. 2020;14(4):367-382
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A healthy immune system is one of the most important weapons in relation to the current pandemic of COVID-19 where no effective preventive and curative medicine is available. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the evidence on enhancing immunity in viral infections. This review focuses on influenza-like viral infections; however, other studies on viral infections have also been included. It included 43 articles of which 13 were on vitamins, 8 on minerals, 18 on nutraceuticals and 4 on probiotics. Results indicate that: - vitamin supplementation, especially vitamin D may be beneficial in people who are either deficient or insufficient. - adverse effects of vitamin E supplementation on the immune response have been reported. - there are several beneficial nutraceuticals, however their efficacy and safety depend on their ingredients, as well as various other factors including, methods of extraction. - in addition to basic hygienic practices, proper dietary and lifestyle behaviours are essential for prevention and treatment of respiratory viral diseases. Authors conclude that achieving recommended amounts of calories and micronutrient will be a challenge and elective micronutrient supplementations may be beneficial especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly.
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Balanced nutrition which can help in maintaining immunity is essential for prevention and management of viral infections. While data regarding nutrition in coronavirus infection (COVID-19) are not available, in this review, we aimed to evaluate evidence from previous clinical trials that studied nutrition-based interventions for viral diseases (with special emphasis on respiratory infections), and summarise our observations. METHODS A systematic search strategy was employed using keywords to search the literature in 3 key medical databases: PubMed®, Web of Science® and SciVerse Scopus®. Studies were considered eligible if they were controlled trials in humans, measuring immunological parameters, on viral and respiratory infections. Clinical trials on vitamins, minerals, nutraceuticals and probiotics were included. RESULTS A total of 640 records were identified initially and 22 studies were included from other sources. After excluding duplicates and articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 43 studies were obtained (vitamins: 13; minerals: 8; nutraceuticals: 18 and probiotics: 4). Among vitamins, A and D showed a potential benefit, especially in deficient populations. Among trace elements, selenium and zinc have also shown favourable immune-modulatory effects in viral respiratory infections. Several nutraceuticals and probiotics may also have some role in enhancing immune functions. Micronutrients may be beneficial in nutritionally depleted elderly population. CONCLUSIONS We summaries possible benefits of some vitamins, trace elements, nutraceuticals and probiotics in viral infections. Nutrition principles based on these data could be useful in possible prevention and management of COVID-19.
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Mediterranean Diet and its Benefits on Health and Mental Health: A Literature Review.
Ventriglio, A, Sancassiani, F, Contu, MP, Latorre, M, Di Slavatore, M, Fornaro, M, Bhugra, D
Clinical practice and epidemiology in mental health : CP & EMH. 2020;16(Suppl-1):156-164
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Mediterranean Diet (MD) is currently considered one of the healthiest dietary models worldwide due to the high intake of antioxidants, dietary fibre, monounsaturated and omega-3 fatty acids, phytosterols and probiotics. The aim of this review was to present current literature showing evidence on the possible impact of MD on health and mental health. The review was based on 27 articles of which 13 were carried out in Spain, 3 in the USA, 3 in Italy, 4 in Australia and 4 in other EU countries. Literature shows that MD improves: - metabolic cardiovascular parameters with a reduced incidence of major cardiovascular events by approximately 30%. - metabolic balance in patients affected by type 2 diabetes mellitus. - biochemical markers for metabolic disorders as well as in patients at risk of specific cancer diseases. Additionally, not enough data is available on the MD effects on specific psychopathological issues. In fact, besides adherence to MD, other factors - which should be further investigated - also play a role in the effectiveness of the MD. Authors conclude that further studies are needed to address the efficacy of diet as an adjunctive treatment for mental disorders as well as for the management of comorbid cardiovascular and metabolic issues.
Abstract
Mediterranean Diet (MD) is currently considered one of the most healthy dietary models worldwide. It is generally based on the daily intake of fruit and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish, white meats, and olive oil. It may also include moderate consumption of fermented dairy products, a low intake of red meat, and red/white wine during the main course. Even if the effect of MD on cancer prevention as well as on human metabolic and cardiovascular balance has been discussed, including the quality of life of the exposed population, the putative effects on mental health are still not properly investigated. This narrative review reports on some emerging pieces of evidence on the possible impact of MD on general health and the outcome of psychiatric disorders (e.g., major depression, anxiety) and encourages further studies to test the benefits of healthy food selection on the health of the general population.
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Effects of Plant-Based Diets on Outcomes Related to Glucose Metabolism: A Systematic Review.
Johannesen, CO, Dale, HF, Jensen, C, Lied, GA
Diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity : targets and therapy. 2020;13:2811-2822
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Research indicates that a reduction in the intake of animal products and an increase in plant-based foods have several positive health outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a plant-based diet on outcomes related to glucose metabolism. This study is a systemic review of nine randomised controlled trials which focused on subjects with overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or cardiovascular disease. Overall, the results of this study were inconsistent overall. Findings show that: - five of the nine studies (56%) showed that the plant-based intervention significantly improved markers of glycaemic control from baseline to end point. - four studies (44%) showed a significant improvement in markers of glycaemic control in the intervention group that differed from the control intervention. Additionally, they also did not reveal any significant improvements of a plant-based intervention on outcomes related to glucose metabolism. Authors outline that no clear conclusion regarding effects of different plant-based diets can be drawn based on the current findings.
Abstract
According to the rising prevalence of obesity and metabolic disorders leading to impaired glucose metabolism, effective strategies to prevent and/or delay the onset of disease are of great need. A plant-based diet has been suggested as an effective lifestyle change that may reduce the degree of obesity and improve outcomes related to glucose metabolism. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effect of a plant-based diet on outcomes related to glucose metabolism. A literature search was conducted in the database PubMed until January 30, 2020. Randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of a plant-based dietary intervention on outcomes related to glucose metabolism in human subjects compared to an omnivorous diet were eligible for inclusion. Of 65 publications identified, nine trials on subjects with overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or cardiovascular disease were included. Five studies reported that the plant-based intervention significantly improved markers of glycemic control from baseline to end point, of which four revealed a significant improvement in the intervention group compared to the control intervention. The remaining four studies did not observe a significant effect of a plant-based intervention on outcomes related to glucose metabolism. Our findings suggest that a shift to a plant-based diet may lead to favorable effects on glycemic control in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or obesity. The data were however somewhat conflicting, and the included trials reported results based on different intervention diets and study populations. Overall, no clear conclusions regarding effects of different plant-based diets can be drawn based on the current findings alone.
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Ultra-Processed Foods and Health Outcomes: A Narrative Review.
Elizabeth, L, Machado, P, Zinöcker, M, Baker, P, Lawrence, M
Nutrients. 2020;12(7)
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Ultra-processed food (UPF) is prevalent in diets world-wide. This review aims to look at the results of studies that have investigated associations between levels of UPF consumption and health outcomes on healthy participants. 43 studies were reviewed; studies covered all age groups (including children and adolescents) in a number of different countries. Studies looked at overweight, obesity and cardio-metabolic risks as outcomes as well as cancer, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, mortality, gastrointestinal disorders, depression, frailty and asthma. In 37 studies, there was at least one statistically significant association between UPF exposure and at least one adverse health outcome. No study reported an association between UPF exposure and beneficial health outcomes. This review has shown that a high intake of UPFs is associated with a range of adverse health outcomes, disorders and conditions. This has the potential to significantly influence the global burden of disease. As well as this; evidence suggests a higher risk of all-cause mortality with high consumption of UPFs. No study reported an association between UPF and beneficial health outcomes. The review has also shown beneficial outcomes were associated with diets higher in unprocessed and minimally processed foods.
Abstract
The nutrition literature and authoritative reports increasingly recognise the concept of ultra-processed foods (UPF), as a descriptor of unhealthy diets. UPFs are now prevalent in diets worldwide. This review aims to identify and appraise the studies on healthy participants that investigated associations between levels of UPF consumption and health outcomes. This involved a systematic search for extant literature; integration and interpretation of findings from diverse study types, populations, health outcomes and dietary assessments; and quality appraisal. Of 43 studies reviewed, 37 found dietary UPF exposure associated with at least one adverse health outcome. Among adults, these included overweight, obesity and cardio-metabolic risks; cancer, type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases; irritable bowel syndrome, depression and frailty conditions; and all-cause mortality. Among children and adolescents, these included cardio-metabolic risks and asthma. No study reported an association between UPF and beneficial health outcomes. Most findings were derived from observational studies and evidence of plausible biological mechanisms to increase confidence in the veracity of these observed associations is steadily evolving. There is now a considerable body of evidence supporting the use of UPFs as a scientific concept to assess the 'healthiness' of foods within the context of dietary patterns and to help inform the development of dietary guidelines and nutrition policy actions.
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Links between metabolic syndrome and the microbiome.
Gildner, TE
Evolution, medicine, and public health. 2020;2020(1):45-46
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Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of co-occurring pathological conditions, characterised by insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, hypertension and dyslipidaemia One possible factor contributing to MetS risk is change in microbiome composition. Diets high in processed foods appear to alter microbiome composition in ways that promote higher fat mass and insulin resistance. Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle decreases microbiome diversity, elevating inflammation and metabolic disease risk. Research on how the microbiome responds to modest, attainable changes in diet and physical activity will help identify which dietary adjustments and exercise types have the greatest potential to protect patients from MetS.
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of harmful conditions which occur together, such as insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, and hypertension. The global prevalence of MetS is growing rapidly, with some estimates suggesting over one billion people worldwide experience increased morality and disease rates linked with this syndrome. One possible factor contributing to MetS risk is changes in microbiome composition. Approximately 100 trillion bacteria and other microbes reside in the human intestinal tract, collectively termed the gut microbiome. Humans and microbes share a long evolutionary history, with many of these microbes influencing human health outcomes. However, environmental conditions have changed dramatically with human technological innovations; many of these changes (e.g., diets high in processed foods and sedentary lifestyles) appear to impact human-microbe relationships. In general, recent changes in diet and activity patterns have been linked to decreased microbiome diversity, elevating inflammation and metabolic disease risk and likely promoting the development of MetS. Targeting patient diet or exercise patterns may therefore help doctors better treat patients suffering from MetS. Still, additional work is needed to determine how the microbiome responds to changes in patient activity and diet patterns across culturally and biologically diverse human populations.
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A cross-sectional study: Associations between sarcopenia and clinical characteristics of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Cui, M, Gang, X, Wang, G, Xiao, X, Li, Z, Jiang, Z, Wang, G
Medicine. 2020;99(2):e18708
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Sarcopenia is characterised by the loss of muscle mass, decrease of muscle strength and decline of physical performance and is related to reduced physical ability, impaired cardiorespiratory function, disability and death in the elderly. Type 2 diabetics are at higher risk of developing sarcopenia. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate clinical characteristics of sarcopenia in elderly type 2 diabetics in the Northeast of China. 132 participants completed the study which was based on self-reported medical and lifestyle history, and clinical evaluations including measurements of weight, height and muscle strength, imaging to establish sarcopenia and blood tests. 28.8% of participants had sarcopenia. Age, increased truncal fat mass and increased free thyroxine increased the risk of sarcopenia, whilst regular exercise, being female, taking metformin, a higher body mass index and increased trunk skeletal mass were associated with a lower risk of sarcopenia. The authors point out that limitations include the small sample size and that, as this is a cross-sectional study, cause and effect cannot be established.
Abstract
Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome and it impairs physical function. Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at a higher risk of sarcopenia. The purpose of this study is to explore characteristics of general information and metabolic factors of sarcopenia in patients with T2DM in the northeast of China, and provide information for the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia in clinical practice.Patients with T2DM aged ≥65 were recruited in Changchun from March 2017 to February 2018. Questionnaires of general information, physical examination, laboratory and imaging examination were conducted. The patients were assigned into sarcopenia group and non-sarcopenia group according to the diagnostic criteria proposed by Asian working group for sarcopenia (AWGS), and the differences between 2 groups were analyzed.A total of 132 participants were included in this study, of which, 38 (28.8%) were diagnosed with sarcopenia. 94 (71.2%) were with no sarcopenia. Logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR: 1.182, 95%CI: 1.038-1.346), trunk fat mass (TFM) (OR: 1.499, 95%CI: 1.146-1.960) and free thyroxine (FT4) (OR: 1.342, 95%CI: 1.102-1.635) were independent risk factors for sarcopenia. BMI (body mass index) (OR: 0.365, 95%CI: 0.236-0.661), exercise (OR: 0.016, 95%CI: 0.001-0.169), female (OR: 0.000, 95%CI: 0.00-0.012), metformin (OR: 0.159, 95%CI: 0.026-0.967) and TSM (trunk skeletal muscle mass) (OR: 0.395, 95%CI: 0.236-0.661) were protective factors for sarcopenia.Sarcopenia in patients with T2DM is associated with increased age, increased TFM and increased FT4 level. Regular exercise, female, metformin administrations, high BMI and increased TSM are associated with lower risk of sarcopenia.
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Clinical Impact of Supplementation of Vitamins B1 and C on Patients with Sepsis-Related Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
Yoo, JW, Kim, RB, Ju, S, Lee, SJ, Cho, YJ, Jeong, YY, Lee, JD, Kim, HC
Tuberculosis and respiratory diseases. 2020;83(3):248-254
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Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition that commonly develops in patients with sepsis. Patients with ARDS require admission to intensive care and invasive mechanical ventilation. Vitamin B1 and C deficiencies have been reported in critically ill patients with sepsis. Vitamin B1 is involved in aerobic metabolism, and vitamin C has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects. The aim of this Korean retrospective cohort study was to evaluate the clinical impact of vitamin B1 and C supplementation in patients with sepsis-related ARDS. Patients with ARDS requiring invasive mechanical ventilation, admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) were included in this study. Clinical outcomes were compared between patients administered with vitamin B1 (200 mg/day) and C (2 g/day) between June 2018-May 2019 (the supplementation group) and those who did not receive vitamin B1 and C administration between June 2017-May 2018 (the control group). Seventy-nine patients were included. Thirty-three patients received vitamin B1 and C, and 46 patients did not. There were no significant differences in the number of deaths between the patients who received vitamin B1 and C and those who did not. The mean number of days not requiring ICU admission or ventilation was greater in patients supplemented with vitamin B1 and C than that in the control patients, but the difference was not statistically significant. Steroid administration was more frequent in patients receiving vitamin B1 and C supplementation than in those without it. The authors concluded that Vitamin B1 and C supplementation at the doses used in this study did not reduce the death rates in ARDS patients.
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although few studies have reported improved clinical outcomes with the administration of vitamin B1 and C in critically ill patients with septic shock or severe pneumonia, its clinical impact on patients with sepsis-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association with vitamin B and C supplementation and clinical outcomes in patients with ARDS. METHODS Patients with ARDS requiring invasive mechanical ventilation, admitted to the medical intensive care unit (ICU) were included in this study. Clinical outcomes were compared between patients administered with vitamin B1 (200 mg/day) and C (2 g/day) June 2018-May 2019 (the supplementation group) and those who did not receive vitamin B1 and C administration June 2017-May 2018 (the control group). RESULTS Seventy-nine patients were included. Thirty-three patients received vitamin B1 and C whereas 46 patients did not. Steroid administration was more frequent in patients receiving vitamin B1 and C supplementation than in those without it. There were no significant differences in the mortality between the patients who received vitamin B1 and C and those who did not. There were not significant differences in ventilator and ICU-free days between each of the 21 matched patients. CONCLUSION Vitamin B1 and C supplementation was not associated with reduced mortality rates, and ventilator and ICU-free days in patients with sepsis-related ARDS requiring invasive mechanical ventilation.
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Endocrine and metabolic aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Marazuela, M, Giustina, A, Puig-Domingo, M
Reviews in endocrine & metabolic disorders. 2020;21(4):495-507
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Endocrine and metabolic related diseases such as diabetes and obesity may increase the risk of developing severe Covid-19 and as a result these diseases could be severely affected by Covid-19 infection. This very large review paper looked at over 100 studies and outlined the interrelationship between Covid-19 infection and several endocrine diseases. Diabetes, obesity, pituitary-hypothalamic function, thyroid function, Cushing's syndrome and adrenal function were all reviewed. No aim was stated. Data on individuals with obesity and diabetes indicated an increased risk for severe Covid-19 infection, hospitalisation and mortality. Data surrounding pituitary-hypothalamic function, thyroid function, Cushing's syndrome and adrenal function was less abundant, however neurological issues in Covid-19 patients suggested an involvement of the pituitary and hypothalamus. In lieu of sufficient data the author commented on the possible similarities between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus with the Covid-19 virus. A number of management strategies were discussed such as the use of vitamin D, oxytocin and melatonin, however the authors commented on the lack of data regarding oxytocin and melatonin in Covid-19 patients, but mechanistic data suggested they might be of use. No overall conclusions were drawn on the findings. Clinicians could use this paper to understand how patients with pre-existing endocrine and metabolic conditions may be at a higher risk of more severe Covid-19 and if contracted could exacerbate their pre-existing condition. These patients could require constant monitoring and additional measures to avoid contracting Covid-19. Supplements such as vitamin D, oxytocin or melatonin could be therapeutic, however more data needs to be reviewed.
Abstract
COVID-19 infection has tremendously impacted our daily clinical practice as well as our social living organization. Virtually all organs and biological systems suffer from this new coronavirus infection, either because the virus targets directly specific tissues or because of indirect effects. Endocrine diseases are not an exception and some of endocrine organs are at risk of direct or indirect lesion by COVID-19. Although there is still no evidence of higher predisposition to contract the infection in patients with diabetes and/or obesity, the coexistence of these conditions contributes to a worse prognosis because both conditions confer an impaired immunologic system. Cytokines storm can be amplified by these two latter conditions thereby leading to multisystemic failure and death. Glycaemic control has been demonstrated to be crucial to avoiding long hospital stays, ICU requirement and also prevention of excessive mortality. Endocrine treatment modifications as a consequence of COVID-19 infection are required in a proactive manner, in order to avoid decompensation and eventual hospital admission. This is the case of diabetes and adrenal insufficiency in which prompt increase of insulin dosage and substitutive adrenal steroids through adoption of the sick day's rules should be warranted, as well as easy contact with the health care provider through telematic different modalities. New possible endocrinological targets of COVID-19 have been recently described and warrant a full study in the next future.