COVID-19 Affects Men Differently – Here’s Why

June is Men’s Health Month, and as we wrap up the month, we couldn’t help but wonder about the ways that COVD-19 has affected men specifically.  So we spoke to Dr. Thaddeus West, primary care physician at UNC Internal Medicine at Goldsboro, to gain a better understanding.

According to the CDC, COVID-19 has a higher mortality rate in males than females. Dr. West says that this could be due to many factors, including:

1. Females seem to have a more vigorous immune response to COVID-19.
2. Males adhere to viral risk reduction policies, such as social distancing and wearing a mask, at a lower rate than females.
3. There are higher angiotensin converting enzyme levels in males, which may increase viral binding to cells.
4. Males may lead less healthy lifestyles.

Men with COVID-19 are also hospitalized at a higher rate than women and end up in the ICU at an even higher rate. Men are also getting vaccinated at a slower rate than women.

The best way to protect yourself and your family from the negative effects of COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. Dr. West, and all our providers at Wayne UNC Health Care, recommend that everyone eligible get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible.

All the approved vaccines in the US have nearly a 100% efficacy rate at preventing COVID-19. You may schedule your vaccine with the Wayne County Health Department by clicking here.