ISSN : 2663-2187

Evaluation of Cardiovascular Risk in Post COVID-19 Infection Patients using Atherogenic Index

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Divakar Elanchezhiyan; Dr. V.Jayachandran; Dr. K.S. Premkumar; Dr. S.Y.Jagannathan
» doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.15.2024.14273-14279

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has not only led to acute health challenges but has also resulted in long-term effects in some individuals, termed "long COVID" or "Post COVID syndrome." This study focuses on evaluating cardiovascular risks in Post COVID-19 patients using the Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP), a measure of plasma atherogenicity and an important predictor of cardiovascular diseases. Objective: To assess cardiovascular risks in Post COVID-19 patients through AIP and understand the impact of COVID-19 on cardiometabolic health. Methodology: The study included 100 Post COVID-19 patients aged 18–45 years, meeting WHO criteria for Post COVID-19 condition. Blood samples were collected following 8-hour fasting, and lipid profiles were analyzed using automated biochemistry analyzers. AIP was calculated as log(TG/HDL-C), and additional lipid parameters such as LDL, VLDL, and total cholesterol were also assessed. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics, with p-values <0.05 considered significant. Results: Of the 100 patients, 56% were male and 44% female, all with normal BMI. AIP analysis revealed that 55% of patients had high cardiovascular risk (AIP > 0.21), 16% had intermediate risk (AIP 0.11–0.21), and 29% had low risk (AIP < 0.11). These findings indicate a significant impact of COVID-19 on cardiovascular health. Discussion: The study highlights the correlation between COVID-19 pathogenesis and elevated AIP values in Long COVID patients. Comparable studies have demonstrated similar findings, suggesting that decreased HDL-C levels and increased triglycerides due to viral load and inflammation contribute to heightened cardiovascular risk. Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of monitoring and managing cardiovascular health in Post COVID-19 patients. Identifying those at risk can inform targeted interventions to reduce long-term morbidity and mortality, emphasizing the need for continued evaluation of chronic effects in COVID-19 survivors.

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