Prevalencia de comorbilidades y su relación con las secuelas en pacientes COVID-19 positivos. Cuenca 2021-2022

Abstract

Objectives: To research the sequelae symptoms of COVID-19 in Cuenca, Ecuador, in October-December 2023 and determine the frequency of comorbidities, sociodemographic factors, and their relationship with the previous symptoms. Methods: Through a sample of 217 patients, an observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study was conducted using Pearson's Chi Square to determine statistical association. The risk factors were analyzed using Odds ratio with a 95% Confidence Interval. Results: The predominant age was 18 to 64 years old (70%), female (56%), single marital status (58%), employed (61%), and urban residence (72%). Six out of ten patients reported sequelae symptoms, and the most frequent were fatigue (29%), cough (20%), alterations in taste and/or smell (16%) and other symptoms (16%). Other results were comorbidities (27%), obesity (19%), high blood pressure (13%), and diabetes (12%). However, no statistical significance was found between sociodemographic factors and the presence of these symptoms. Conclusion: The sequelae symptoms of COVID-19 have a high prevalence and are independent of the severity of the infection. The study did not demonstrate statistical significance. However, due to the heterogeneity between populations, more studies are required.