Identification of Vulnerable Populations and Areas at Higher Risk of COVID-19 Related Mortality in the U.S.

ABSTRACT: Background The role of health-related disparities including sociodemographic, environmental, and critical care capacity in the COVID-19 pandemic are poorly understood. In the present study, we characterized vulnerable populations located in areas at higher risk of COVID-19 related mortality and low critical healthcare capacity in the U.S. Methods Using Bayesian multilevel analysis and small area disease risk mapping, we assessed the spatial variation of COVID-19 related mortality risk for the U.S. in relation with healthcare disparities including race, ethnicity, poverty, air quality, and critical healthcare capacity. Results Overall, highly populated, regional air hub areas, and minorities had an increased risk of COVID-19 related mortality. We found that with an increase of only 1 ug/m3

SUBMITTER: Correa-Agudelo E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7373146 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature