Long COVID, a condition that follows a COVID-19 infection and involves persistent symptoms for at least three months, has emerged as a significant concern.
Research conducted by academics from UCL and Dartmouth reveals that as of the end of 2022, one in seven Americans reported experiencing long COVID.
This condition not only affects physical health but also has a substantial impact on mental well-being.
Long COVID’s Pervasive Impact
The study encompassed a vast dataset, involving responses from 461,550 individuals who participated in the US Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey between June and December 2022.
The researchers categorized respondents into three groups: those who never had COVID-19, those who had COVID-19 without lingering symptoms, and those who had or currently had long COVID.
Prevalence of Long COVID
The findings revealed that approximately 47% of the participants had experienced COVID-19 at some point, with 14% of the total sample indicating a history of long COVID.
Notably, half of those with long COVID (equivalent to 7% of the total sample) continued to experience symptoms when surveyed. This suggests that one in three individuals who contract COVID-19 may develop long COVID symptoms.
Understanding Long COVID’s Impact
- Mental Well-being:
Individuals with long COVID faced significant challenges in their mental well-being. They reported higher levels of negative affect, including anxiety, depression, worry, or a lack of interest in things. These emotional struggles can substantially impact a person’s quality of life.
- Physical Health:
Long COVID was associated with physical mobility problems and difficulties in dressing and bathing, as reported by respondents. These challenges highlight the broader impact of long COVID on daily life and functioning.
- Cognitive Function:
Those with long COVID also reported problems related to memory, concentration, understanding, and being understood. These cognitive issues can affect one’s ability to work, socialize, and carry out daily tasks effectively.
Demographic Variations:
The study identified specific demographic variations in long COVID prevalence:
Gender: Long COVID was more common among women than men, highlighting potential gender-related differences in its manifestation.
Age: Middle-aged individuals were more likely to experience long COVID.
Socioeconomic Status: Long COVID rates were elevated among those with lower incomes or educational attainment, emphasizing potential disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.
Regional Disparities: Long COVID was most common in West Virginia (18% of the population) and least common in Hawaii (11%), indicating geographical variations.
Severity of Initial COVID-19 Symptoms
Notably, individuals who experienced severe symptoms during their initial COVID-19 infection were more likely to develop long COVID. This underscores the importance of monitoring and providing care for those with severe acute infections.
While this study sheds light on the prevalence and impact of long COVID, there is much more to learn. Researchers are eager to understand how long COVID leads to its array of symptoms and to assess the potential impact of vaccinations on long COVID risks.
Longitudinal data will play a crucial role in unraveling the complexities of this condition and devising strategies to mitigate its effects.
In conclusion, the study’s findings highlight the pervasive impact of long COVID on both mental and physical well-being.
As the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing the challenges posed by long COVID remains a critical priority for healthcare and research communities.
If you care about long COVID, please read studies about the long mystery of long COVID: it’s not inflammation! and Long COVID: The uninvited guest that tires the brain and worsens moods.
For more information about health, please see recent studies about COVID infection and vaccination linked to heart disease, and results showing extracts from two wild plants can inhibit COVID-19 virus.
The research findings can be found in PLoS ONE.
Follow us on Twitter for more articles about this topic.
Copyright © 2023 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
