key: cord-0858458-4sm0ta03
authors: Austin, T. M.; Miller, B. E.
title: BMI‐ and age‐related associations with mortality from COVID‐19
date: 2021-04-11
journal: Anaesthesia
DOI: 10.1111/anae.15478
sha: 7c1453a56298283f3c33f9eb3530d4d9eb48c672
doc_id: 858458
cord_uid: 4sm0ta03

nan

a fundamental surgical concern during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the authors rightfully decided on a host of probable confounding factors to include in their regression modelling a priori, we believe an important variable was omitted from the analysis that requires adjustment, namely BMI. Since higher BMIs are associated with a greater risk of contracting COVID-19 [2] and COVID-19-related mortality [3] , this variable could potentially complicate the results of this investigation and conclusions based on its findings. Thus, the regression models should account for BMI in order to better ascertain the correlation between timing of surgery after COVID-19 and mortality.

As paediatric anaesthetists, we are also concerned as to whether the results of this study can be generalised to our paediatric practice, because COVID-19-related death occurs at a far lower rate in those aged 0-17 y relative to those who are older [4] . We believe that performing a sensitivity analysis that includes only patients aged < 18 y would be beneficial to paediatric anaesthetists and surgeons in our continual pursuit of optimal patient care and safety. 

Timing of surgery following SARS-CoV-2 infection: an international prospective cohort study

Association between body mass index and risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): a nationwide case-control study in South Korea

Association of body mass index and age with morbidity and mortality in patients hospitalized with COVID-19: results from the American Heart Association COVID-19 Cardiovascular Disease Registry

Risk for COVID-19 infection, hospitalization, and death by age group