The Implication of Behavioral and Molecular Factors on COVID-19 Infection

Abstract

Worldwide, more than 6 million individuals have passed away in the two years since the pandemic began. The mortality and infection rates for men and women differ significantly across the several nations impacted by SARS-CoV-2. Many features of the SARS-CoV-2 replication cycle are influenced by several processes. The numerous ways in which genetic, epigenetic, or behavioral mechanisms affect the viral life cycle and the host's immune response to infection have led to identifying potential markers. COVID-19 causes various symptoms, from minor respiratory symptoms to fatal respiratory syndrome, with men, regardless of age, having a worsened illness course than women and a higher mortality rate. Gender differences in illness progression can be attributed to genetic variables like chromosomal characteristics and behavioral factors like hygiene behaviors. In this review, we extracted data from various WHO guidelines and other articles and the main molecular and behavioral mechanisms involved in COVID-19 disease are highlighted. Exploration of these factors may explain why COVID-19 affects gender differently.