Demographic trends in COVID-19 prevalence at a primary hospital of Mashhad: a screening study

This study intricately explores the demographic dynamics influence on infection rates, disease severity, and mortality attributed to the virus. Through a meticulous examination of these demographic and contextual factors, we aimed at identification of high-risk individuals. Employing a cross-sectional descriptive design, this study analyzes the medical records of all patients admitted to Qaem Hospital in Mashhad, Iran, from April 2019 to September 2021 due to COVID-19. All patients who their nasopharyngeal swab tests of COVID-19 resulted positive were included in study. A Demographic data, reason for referral to hospital, length of hospitalization, and COVID-19 related death rates were collected. The findings reveal that the average age of patients was 59.22 ± 19.41 years. A notable 5.8% of the female population was pregnant. Respiratory-related complaints were the predominant reason for patient referral to hospital. Alarmingly, 28.3% of the patients succumbed to the COVID-19. The majority of patients (62%) had hospital stays of less than 5 days; 41.5% exhibited oxygen saturation levels below 90%. The majority of patients demonstrated systolic blood pressure levels between 90 and 130 mmHg. Statistical analysis showed the significant association between older age (P 0.001) and lower oxygen saturation levels (P 0.001) with increased mortality. Heightened attention should be accorded to patients of advanced age and those with diminished oxygen saturation levels. These factors emerge as valuable prognostic indicators, guiding the trajectory of each patient’s disease. This early discernment paves the way for targeted health interventions, contributing to the alleviation of the mortality rate.