The Role of Obesity in Severe COVID-19 Pathophysiology

Launched by FRANCISCUS GASTHUIS · May 9, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating how obesity may affect the severity of COVID-19, particularly focusing on the immune response in patients with and without obesity. Researchers want to understand why people with obesity are more likely to experience severe symptoms of COVID-19. They will study immune cells called macrophages, which help the body fight infections, and how they respond differently in obese individuals compared to those with a healthy weight.

To participate in this study, you need to be between 18 and 65 years old. If you have obesity (a body mass index or BMI of 30 or higher), you may qualify for the obesity group. Alternatively, if you have a healthy weight (BMI less than 25) and work at the hospital, you can be part of the control group. Participants will have their immune cells analyzed to see how they react to COVID-19, helping researchers develop better treatment strategies for those at higher risk. If you decide to join, you will contribute to important research that could improve care for people affected by COVID-19.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion criteria:
• • Cohort 1 (obesity cohort)
• • ≥18 and ≤65 years of age
• • BMI ≥30 kg/m²
• • Patient of Franciscus Hospital
• • Cohort 2 (control cohort)
• • ≥18 and ≤65 years of age
• • BMI \<25 kg/m²
• • Healthcare workers of Franciscus Hospital
• Exclusion Criteria (for both cohorts):
• • Acute infection or current systemic immunological disorders
• • Use of immune-modulatory medication (i.e., corticosteroids and biologicals)
• • Hormonal therapy