The largest study of its kind in Australia has found patients with a history of heart failure are three times more likely to die from COVID-19.

Launched last year at the outset of the pandemic, the AUS-COVID trial is investigating those who are most at risk from COVID-19 in Australia. To date, it has assessed hundreds of patients in 21 hospitals across the country. 

The study confirmed concerns by clinicians that it was not just those with heart failure who were at a greater risk. It found that patients with chronic kidney disease are twice are likely to die from COVID-19, while patients with chronic lung disease such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis are also around twice as likely to die from the virus.

Head of Cardiology at RNSH and Kolling Institute researcher Professor Ravinay Bhindi said the findings have provided valuable data to assist in the treatment of new cases of COVID-19.

“These patient outcomes and emerging trends are also underpinning the importance of vaccination. 

“It’s critical that all patients with heart failure and other chronic conditions are vaccinated against COVID-19. We now have the data to show that if you have one of these chronic conditions and you’re not vaccinated when you get COVID-19, you are much more likely to die. 

“Our research is based on hundreds of cases across Australia, many with tragic outcomes. It’s important that we use thi  s information to inform the care we provide for patients, and address any vaccine hesitancy with real-life experience.”