Characteristic of epigenetic factors of COVID-19 of fertile aged women residents of the Kharkiv region of Ukraine who have undergone coronavirus infection

Abstract

Purpose - to characterize the epigenetic factors of COVID-19 in women of childbearing age, residents of Kharkiv region who have had coronavirus infection, identified as a result of clinical and epidemiological studies.

Materials and methods. This research investigates the potential epigenetic risk factors for COVID-19 onset and progression in women of childbearing age in the Kharkiv region. An original, comprehensive questionnaire designed to capture a wide range of health and socio-biological risk factors was disseminated among 100 women who had contracted the virus. Follow-up examinations and interviews were conducted with 26 of these women. The questionnaire covered a broad spectrum, including general information, social status, working conditions, smoking and alcohol use habits, sexual health history, and a interview.

Results. The study revealed that a notable proportion of the surveyed women experienced adverse working conditions. 7.7% reported regular and 11.5% occasional exposure to chemically harmful environments. About 19.2% indicated consistent and 34.6% intermittent work-related nervous strain. Furthermore, 7.7% of the respondents identified persistent physical hazards at their workplace, while 23.1% experienced occupational harm. Among male partners, 3.8% always and 23.1% occasionally had contact with harmful vapours or chemicals at work. Epigenetic risk factors were determined using a clinical genealogical map. Occupational harm was absent before and after COVID-19 infection in 19.2% and 15.4% of women, respectively. Regarding harmful habits, 26.9% and 23.1% of women did not engage in tobacco smoking before and after COVID-19 infection, respectively, whereas 3.8% and 7.7% consumed alcohol. Past illnesses, such as rubella and Botkin's disease, were identified as potential epigenetic factors in 3.8% of women.

Conclusions. It has been established that among the identified epigenetic risk factors that may directly or indirectly affect the spread of coronavirus infection in women residents of the Kharkiv region, the following require special attention of the doctor: contact with physical and chemical agents, past diseases and conditions, and bad habits, which may be important for the spread of the disease in women. It has been found that among the epigenetic factors of COVID-19, past illnesses and conditions are important - rubella was experienced by 3.8% of women before COVID-19, Botkin’s disease - 3.8%, and 3.8% of women before and after the disease.

The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies.

No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.