Effects of COVID-19 in Endocrine Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract: Introduction: Home confinement due to COVID-19 lockdown led to changes in daily
routines, including social interactions, as well as restrictions on the possibility of playing sports
and eating habits. These changes could have a greater impact on patients suffering from chronic
diseases, such as endocrine patients, especially in emotional and behavioral dimensions. Materials
and Methods: This study aimed to assess the effects of COVID-19-induced quarantine on daily habits
in a group of patients with endocrine disorders, focusing on food consumption, eating habits and
sleep during the confinement. Eighty-five endocrine patients were enrolled. A structured interview
was administered to investigate socio-demographic information, general medical conditions, and
habits adopted during quarantine. All patients underwent the Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory
(STAI-Y1) to assess state anxiety. Result: Results showed that subjects mainly had a sedentary lifestyle.
We found a significant increase in the number of cigarettes in smokers and in meals consumed during
confinement, as well as a high rate of sleep disturbance, especially insomnia. Notably, physical
well-being resulted to be a predictive factor (OR = 0.38; 95%CI = [0.95,0.66]), whereas anxiety was a
risk factor for sleep disorder (OR = 1.22; 95%CI = [1.10,1.40]), as was working in public and private
offices and being a student. Conclusions: Changes in daily habits were likely due to the alterations
in routine, resulting in greater boredom and inactivity during the day. In addition, future research
should focus on the importance of patient adherence to therapy.