The Association between Lifestyle Risk Factors and COVID-19 Hospitalization in a Healthcare Institution

Abstract

COVID-19 is an acute infectious respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, a subtype of the coronavirus. In addition to normal levels of biometric measures, a healthy lifestyle has been considered an indispensable element in preventing complications of coronavirus infection. Demographic characteristics are also critical in determining risk levels. Aim: Investigate potential significant associations between health behaviors, biometric screenings, demographics, and COVID-19 hospitalization in Loma Linda University Health employees. Methods: Participants are employees covered under the employer-sponsored health plan at Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, who tested positive for COVID-19. Logistic regression models were applied to analyze demographics, biometric screenings, and lifestyle factors associated with COVID-19 hospitalization. In our study, 7% of participants required hospitalization. Variables independently associated with COVID-19 hospitalization included higher age (OR = 1.05 [1.01–1.08], P = .005), non-White race compared to the White race (OR = 3.2 [1.22–8.38], P = .018), higher HbA1C levels showing a marginal association (OR = 1.31 [.99–1.72], P = .057), and lower vegetable consumption (OR = 4.39 [2.06–9.40], P < .001). Lower protein consumption decreased the Odds of hospitalization (OR = .40 [.19–.87], P = .021). Our results suggest that a diet that includes more vegetables and lower protein may confer some protection against COVID-19 hospitalization.