The risk factors in the face of the SARS-CoV2 pandemic vary according to the sociodemographic and economic conditions in each context. Until April 6, the average age of those who have died due to the COVID-19 in Cuba was 67.2 years. According to the information provided by the health authorities, more than half of them had a history of hypertension, diabetes, pneumonia or other risk factors. That same day, 15 people were reported in a critical or serious condition, whose average age was 64.5 years, and 10 of them had similar previous conditions, especially high blood pressure.<\/p>\n
The high percentage of older adults (population 60 years or older) constitutes one of the most important risk factors in the face of the COVID-19. However, the prevalence of chronic diseases, family composition and home conditions are other variables to be addressed by both public and health institutions and citizens.<\/p>\n
In Cuba, more than 2 million people are over 60 years old, which represents 20.4% of the population. Among them, more than 50% suffer from at least high blood pressure. As can be seen in the table that follows, the age and prevalence of non-transmittable diseases places almost 1,300,000 older adults in a very high risk group in the face of SARS-CoV2.<\/p>\n