Emerging evidence has suggested potential metabolic consequences following COVID-19 infection. A systematic review published in Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice evaluated whether COVID-19 exposure is associated with the development of insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction in adults without a prior history of type 2 diabetes.

Ovid MEDLINE and Embase were searched for studies published between December 2019 and May 2024. Eligible studies included observational investigations comparing adults exposed to COVID-19 with non-exposed control groups for outcomes related to insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction. Risk of bias was assessed using adapted Newcastle–Ottawa and Joanna Briggs Institute scales.

Of 6901 records screened, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria, reporting 37 individual measures of insulin resistance and beta-cell function. Insulin resistance worsened significantly in 16 of 25 comparisons (64.0%) among COVID-19-exposed groups. Measures of beta-cell dysfunction worsened significantly in 7 of 12 comparisons (58.3%) relative to controls. Five studies were classified as low risk of bias.

Overall, COVID-19 exposure was associated with worsening insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction. The findings suggest infection may act as a metabolic stressor affecting gluco-regulatory mechanisms, although beta-cell results warrant cautious interpretation given methodological limitations in the reported measures.