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