Examining Prediabetes Risks in COVID-19 Cases: What Insights Does the COVID Follow-up Clinic Provide?

Abstract

Aim: Given the potential metabolic impacts of COVID-19, understanding the relationship between post-COVID-19 health and prediabetes can provide insights into the long-term consequences of the disease. This study aims to evaluate the risk factors associated with the development of prediabetes in patients following COVID-19 infection. Materials and Methods: This descriptive case series study included five patients diagnosed with new-onset prediabetes after COVID-19, who visited the COVID-19 Follow-up Clinic. Demographic data, medical history, and laboratory findings were collected retrospectively from the Health Management System. Risk factors such as physical activity levels, smoking, body mass index, and the use of corticosteroids were assessed concerning prediabetes development. Results: Prediabetes was diagnosed in 4.2% of patients after COVID-19 disease. The findings revealed that 80% of the patients were male, with an average age of over 65 years. Several risk factors, including age, gender, low physical activity levels, and corticosteroid use during COVID-19 treatment, were associated with an increased likelihood of prediabetes. One patient was found to have high clinical frailty, which may further predispose them to metabolic imbalances. Conclusion: COVID-19 may contribute not only to acute health issues but also to long-term metabolic risks such as prediabetes. Post-COVID-19 patients with prediabetes require close monitoring and lifestyle interventions to mitigate the risk of progression to diabetes mellitus. This study underscores the importance of assessing metabolic health in COVID-19 survivors and calls for further research with larger sample sizes to deepen our understanding of COVID-19’s long-term effects on metabolic health.

Keywords

• prediabetic state
• COVID-19
• preventive health services
• assessment of healthcare needs

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