Report shows COVID-19 affected Canadians with noncommunicable diseases more than those without

Researchers say people with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes or chronic lung ailments were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. The report also shows women living with NCDs reported suffering greater psychological distress, such as feelings of isolation and loneliness, compared to men. Men with NCDs reported increased alcohol consumption. Other findings include:

• Participants who reported NCDs tended to be older, have a high school education or less and an annual household income under $60,000. They were more likely to report having a diagnosed mental health disorder;
• Participants with NCDs were also 21% more likely to report significant COVID-induced anxiety, depression, loneliness and anger. They were more likely to report doing less physical activity and eating a less healthy diet than those without NCDs; and
• This group was also 57% more likely to report having medical appointments cancelled or avoiding the ER.