which is the independent variable in the question are male patients with a covid-19 infection more likely to become hosp

[answerhappygod]

which is the independent variable in the question are male
patients with a covid-19 infection more likely to become
hospitalized and require ventilation than female patient with
covid-19?
a) a COVID-19 infection
b) hospitalization and ventilation for COVID-19
c) male patients
d) patient’s gender