Given that almost all of those who die from COVID-19 have at least one comorbidity factor like hypertension or diabetes, self-describedly “curvy” Meghan Cantwell of Nashville, Tennessee, was extremely encouraged to learn that some research suggests that obesity alone, without an additional accompanying risk factor, does not seem to raise the risk of coronavirus death.
“That information came as such a relief,” said 33-year-old Meghan, who recently learned that her cousin Donald in Kentucky has tested positive for COVID-19. “Thanks to medication, my blood pressure is perfect. And at this point I’m only prediabetic, so I should be good.”
Even so, said Meghan, just to be safe, she has been steadfastly quarantining herself at home, and dons a face mask and gloves on the few occasions she’s been required to go outside, such as to check the mail. “Donald sometimes sends me postcards from Kentucky, and there’s no telling how long the virus can last on glossy surfaces,” she noted.
The bottom line, says Meghan, is that the panic over COVID-19 has brought home to her that, more than anything, her health must come first. "Pandemics like this are a great time to reevaluate priorities," she said. "Even after this is over, I plan to keep having my food delivered and continue in my other healthy habits."
