SARS-CoV-2 is known to exploit two membrane receptors i.e. ACE2 and TMPRSS2 to enter its host cells, production of both of which are reportedly increased by androgens (male sex hormones), thus making males more susceptible to infection.  Another evidence being male pattern baldness, caused by high circulating levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), is observed in males with severe COVID-19. Thus the drugs for treating prostate conditions and male hair loss, which reduce the production of DHT/block the hormone’s receptors, have been shown to speed up the recovery in COVID-19 patients.

Apart from relating to hormones, The European Society of Endocrinology also relates metabolism with COVID-19 and describe additional risks for people with diabetes, obesity, low vitamin D levels, and pituitary, adrenal, and thyroid disorders.

But also gave a sign of relief by citing COVID-19 vaccines shows similar efficacy and safety in patients with stable diabetes and obesity like the healthy subjects.

Alongside, they rendered the vaccines to be equally safe in patients with stable endocrine diseases such as autoimmune thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, Addison disease, pituitary adenomas, type 1 and 2 diabetes, and obesity, like the other population. Although, some conditions as Addison disease, may require some adjustment for additional safety.