A study conducted on March 4th by the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS) examined the data on the first Italian patients who died from COVID-19: 73 in Lombardy, 21 in Emilia-Romagna, 7 in Veneto and 3 in Marche. After analyzing the results by age group, it is evident that:
– 42.2% of deaths occurred between 80 and 89 years
– 32.4% between 70 and 79
– 14.1% over 90
– 8.4% between 60 and 69
– 2.8% between 50 and 59
As a result, the average age of those who have died from the virus is 81 years old, about 30 years more than the average age of those who have only been infected: 51 years old, of which 73.3% are men. (see article HAND CORONAVIRUS DATA)
Furthermore, over half of the individuals that died were already suffering from one or more diseases (comorbidities). In particular, the average number is over 3 associated diseases; 3.4 to be exact. In more detail:
– 15.5% of the sample suffered from 0-1 diseases,
– 18.3% from 2 diseases, and
– 67.2% from 3 or more diseases.
In this new analysis, it was evident that the most recurrent pre-existing diseases are hypertension (74.6%), followed by ischemic heart disease (70.4%), and diabetes mellitus (33.8%). As commented by the president of the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Silvio Brusaferro: “These are very fragile people, who often live in close contact with others, and whom we must protect as much as possible”.
In Italy, hypertension, ischemic heart disease and diabetes mellitus (also referred to as type 2 diabetes) are among the most common conditions. Along with cancer, they are responsible for over a third of diseases and premature deaths. So much so that 36.9% of men and 18.5% of women who suffer from these preventable diseases die before the age of 75. They can be avoided because most of the risk factors associated with these diseases could be reduced by making changes to diet and lifestyle, and maintaining an adequate weight.
Unfortunately, the data of the latest Italian report on overweight and obesity (Italian Obesity Barometer Report 2019 – IBDO Foundation data in collaboration with ISTAT – see article OBESITY IN ITALY), indicate that almost 50% of Italians are overweight, about 25 million people; and one in ten is obese. Additionally, around 4 in 10 children are overweight or obese. As shown by studies in “The Seeds of Longevity are Planted in Childhood” by Professor Valter Longo, children and adults alike consume too much starch and protein. Starches, sugars, and proteins are at the core of accelerated aging, and contribute to the development of various diseases.
Hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and type 2 diabetes are the main risk factors linked to premature death. Along with genetic predisposition, they are also directly connected to bad habits such as poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and alcohol abuse. However, scientific studies show that age is the main risk factor in developing these diseases. We are observing something analogous in regards to Coronavirus infection. That is, those who are older are more fragile and get sick more easily. Intervening directly on aging over time, therefore, could prevent many diseases. This is more effective than interventions that are currently implemented, which aim at curing diseases at the time of their diagnosis. A process, however, which cannot be applied quickly or urgently, and which must be understood in the long run.
During this COVID-19 outbreak, the ministerial and international measures that have been put out must be strictly followed: wash your hands often; do not touch your mouth, nose, or eyes; in case of sneezing or coughing, cover your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue to be thrown away immediately, or use the crease of the elbow; avoid contact with people who have flu symptoms; avoid handshakes and hugs, keeping a distance of at least 1 meter; avoid crowded places, and preferably do not leave the house; if you have symptoms, do not go to the emergency room but contact your doctor.
In any case, a significant and valuable strategy is the one represented by the innovative approach (based on the 5 PILLARS OF HEALTHY LONGEVITY – see article) proposed by the Valter Longo Foundation. This strategy is focused on the mechanisms that help slow down aging and promote healthy longevity. This can be implemented immediately to strengthen the immune system both in the short term (see article VITAMINS AND MINERALS TO SUPPORT THE IMMUNE SYSTEM), especially in this serious health emergency, and in the long term, so as not to find us unprepared for future health challenges.
The team of Nutritionists of the Valter Longo Onlus Foundation is always available, especially in this difficult period, to help those who may need it: children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly, as we continue to offer everyone the opportunity for a long and healthy life.
For more information: nutrizionisti@valterlongo.com
SOURCES:
1.https://www.iss.it/web/guest//comunicati-stampa/-/asset_publisher/fjTKmjJgSgdK/content/id/5286166
3. La Longevità inizia da bambini. Vallardi editore, 2019
4. NSIS, Nuovo Sistema Informativo Sanitario
5. AIOM, Associazione Italiana Oncologia Medica
6. IDF, International Diabetes Federation, Diabetes Atlas
7. La Dieta della Longevità. Vallardi editore, 2016
