Global Population Aging, National Development Level, and Vulnerability to the Pandemic

PURPOSE: This study examined the roles of population aging and national development level in affecting different phases of novel coronavirus disease development with a view to advancing preparedness and corresponding policy. METHODS: Regression analysis was conducted using multisource data from the World Bank and Johns Hopkins COVID-19 Dashboard. RESULTS: Population aging is positively associated with confirmed cases of day-10, day-20, and day-30. The positive association between population aging and death does not emerge until day-20. Countries with a higher proportion of older males face higher risks of death.. Countries with a higher proportion of males aged 70–74 years are at the highest risk of confirmed cases. National development level is not associated with confirmed cases, but developing countries face significantly higher risks of death of day-10 and day-20. CONCLUSION: Prevention and control policies for older adults and underdeveloped areas and sex differences need to be studied.