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An Evaluation on the Frequencies of Underlying Diseases and Symptoms Along with the Mortality Rate of COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
23 Pages Posted: 14 Apr 2020
More...Abstract
Introduction: COVID-19 is a rapidly spreading infection affecting a large number of people. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of underlying diseases, symptoms and the mortality rate of COVID-19 by systematic review and meta-analysis.
Materials and Methods: In this meta-analysis, the keywords of COVID-19, underlying diseases, symptoms, and mortality were searched in national and international databases between 2019 and 2020 to obtain related studies. The I2 index was used to investigate heterogeneity among the studies.
Results: Eighteen studies were selected to be finally analyzed. The mean percentage of mortality was 14% (I2 = 98.9, P<0.001). The most common symptoms were fever (91%, I2 = 88.5, P <0.001), and cough (71%, I2= 84.5, P <0.001), and the most frequent underlying diseases were hypertension (41%, I2 = 98.9, P <0.001), diabetes (18%, I2 = 88.7, P <0.001) and Cardiovascular disease (11%, I2 = 87.7, P <0.001).
Conclusion: As the fever, cough were most common symptoms of COVID-19 infection, it is advisable for unaffected individuals to keep a safe distance (a few meters) from patients. As well, considering safety precautions can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to the virus.
Funding Statement: Research and Technology Deputy of the University provided financial support.
Declaration of Interests: We confirm that there is no conflict of interest for all the authors.
Ethics Approval Statement: This research was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Ilam University of Medical Sciences (IR.MEDILAM.REC.1398.211).
Keywords: COVID-19, Co-morbidities, Symptom, Mortality
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