A UK study involving over 58 million people has identified eight rare diseases that significantly increase the risk of death from COVID-19, even among vaccinated individuals.
Historically, rare diseases have been underrepresented in large-scale research and public health policies, leading to inadequate medical support. During the pandemic, many rare conditions were not included in official quarantine lists, leaving vulnerable patients without additional protective measures. Public health guidelines largely overlooked these groups in the UK despite their heightened risk.
Researchers from University College London and the University of Glasgow, supported by BHF Data Research HDR UK, analyzed electronic health records (EHRs) to assess the impact of rare diseases on COVID-19 outcomes. The findings indicate that individuals with these conditions face a five-fold increased risk of death from COVID-19 compared to the general population, with the highest risk observed among those with rare forms of infertility and kidney disease.
Data challenges persist, as rare diseases are often diagnosed late, and the study period included different COVID-19 variants. However, the detailed UK health records analysis also highlighted ethnic disparities, showing that certain rare conditions are more prevalent among specific populations. Professor Gonghan Wu of the University of Glasgow emphasized the importance of early diagnosis, stating, “Early detection means early intervention and better treatment.” The study underscores the need for better integration of EHR data to improve healthcare strategies, especially for marginalized groups.
Disclaimer: Medical research data reflects general trends and may not apply to everyone. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice regarding rare diseases and COVID-19 risk.
