COVID-19 Pandemic Exacerbates Sepsis and Diabetes Mortality in the US

Strategic Insights -

Research from a new study published in the journal Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism has revealed alarming trends in sepsis-related mortality among diabetic individuals in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study analyzed national patterns, temporal shifts, and demographic disparities in sepsis-related mortality in diabetic patients from 1999 to 2023, utilizing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER) Multiple Cause of Death database.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that a total of 483,207 sepsis-related deaths occurred in individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) during the study period.
  • Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) declined significantly from 1999 to 2018, with an annual percentage change (APC) of -1.22 (p < 0.001).
  • However, AAMRs increased significantly from 2018 to 2023, with an APC of 1.22 (p < 0.001).
  • The study revealed significant temporal shifts in sepsis-related mortality rates, with a peak in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Demographic disparities in sepsis-related mortality rates were also observed, with higher rates among African American and Hispanic populations compared to white populations.
  • The study concluded that integrated diabetes-infection care models, early sepsis recognition, and equity-driven interventions are necessary to reduce mortality.

Statistics:

  • A total of 483,207 sepsis-related deaths occurred in individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) during the study period (1999-2023).
  • Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) declined significantly from 1999 to 2018, with an APC of -1.22 (95% CI: -1.30 to -1.15) and p < 0.001.
  • AAMRs increased significantly from 2018 to 2023, with an APC of 1.22 (95% CI: 1.01 to 1.43) and p < 0.001.
  • The peak in sepsis-related mortality rates occurred in 2020, with a rate of 24.6 per 100,000 individuals.
  • African American and Hispanic populations had higher sepsis-related mortality rates compared to white populations, with rates of 29.1 and 28.5 per 100,000 individuals, respectively.

Sources:

  • Trends and Disparities in Mortality due to Diabetes Mellitus and Sepsis in the US Adults: 1999-2023. Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, 2025;8(5).
  • Sufyan Shahid, et al. (2025). Findings in COVID-19 Reported from Sufyan Shahid and Co-Researchers. Diabetes Week. August 18, 2025; p 47.