Heart disease may be main underlying condition in COVID-19 deaths

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Heart disease may be the main underlying condition in deaths related to COVID-19.

Oregon health officials reported most of the roughly 100 people who died in the state from the illness had underlying health conditions.

Almost 60% of those who died had heart disease, 25% had smoked in the past and quit, and only 1.4% of those who died were current smokers.