Reductuin of Population Risk Factors for Severe Disease and Mortality of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia
Keywords:
COVID-19, Interventions, Saudi Arabia, Systematic Review, Clinical Practice, EffectivenessAbstract
Introduction:
This systematic review aimed to identify population risk factors for severe disease and mortality in COVID-19 within the Saudi Arabian context, focusing specifically on interventional studies and clinical trials conducted up to July 2022. The review aimed to synthesize existing evidence, provide insights into effective interventions, and inform clinical practice and public health strategies.
Methods:
A comprehensive search strategy was developed to identify relevant studies in electronic databases and additional sources. Inclusion criteria were defined to encompass interventional and cohort studies conducted in Saudi Arabia during the specified timeframe. Two independent reviewers screened studies, extracted data, and assessed study quality. Data synthesis involved comparing risk differences and effectiveness of interventions across studies.
Results:
Seven interventional studies and clinical trials and cohort met the inclusion criteria. Sample sizes varied from 52 to 4670 participants. Interventions included pharmacological treatments (e.g., remdesivir), behavioral interventions (e.g., mask-wearing promotion), and healthcare delivery strategies (e.g., telemedicine services). Effectiveness varied across interventions, with remdesivir and telemedicine services demonstrating significant reductions in mortality and hospital admissions, respectively. Hydroxychloroquine administration and behavioral interventions did not show significant differences in outcomes compared to control groups.
Conclusions:
This review highlights the effectiveness of certain interventions, such as remdesivir and telemedicine services, in reducing severe disease and mortality in COVID-19 within the Saudi Arabian population. However, the effectiveness of other interventions, such as hydroxychloroquine administration and behavioral interventions, remains inconclusive. These findings underscore the need for tailored approaches in COVID-19 management and emphasize the importance of ongoing research and evidence-based practice.
JCEM
