Why 1.2 million lung disease patients are more vulnerable
A SCIENTIFIC study has confirmed that people with lung disease are more at risk of falling ill with coronavirus if overweight and obese.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) includes a group of lung conditions causing breathing difficulties, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. There are more than 1.2million sufferers in the UK.
A University of Manchester study examined the lung tissue of 37 COPD patients.
A lung-coated enzyme called Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (or ACE2) is a receptor for the virus and allows Covid-19 to gain entry into the body.
The university team has found higher levels of ACE2 in those with COPD who are overweight.
Dr Andrew Higham, lead author of the study, said: “Overweight COPD patients have more of the receptor, or entry point, required for coronavirus infection, in their lungs.
“This means these patients may be at a greater risk of developing Covid-19 due to increased opportunities for infection.”
Professor Dave Singh, senior author of the study, said: “Many COPD patients suffer with frequent viral infections, so they also have a high risk for developing Covid-19.
Our findings suggest the risk is further increased in COPD patients who are also overweight.
“If you have COPD and are overweight, then it is extremely important to follow the guidance and use shielding to keep yourself safe from Covid-19.”
The results – published in the journal Obesity – are essential information for those living with the chronic life-limiting disorder.
It causes inflammation in the lungs, damages lung tissue and narrows the airways – making breathing increasingly difficult.
Many people living with COPD are thought to be overweight with a body mass index of more than 25. Around two per cent of the UK – and 4.5 per cent of people aged over 40 – live with diagnosed COPD, according to the British Lung foundation.
The research was supported by the National Institute of Health Research, Manchester Biomedical Research Centre and the North West Lung Centre charity in Manchester.