(HealthDay News) — Demographic factors significantly influence long COVID symptom severity, according to a study published online Aug. 28 in JRSM Open.
David Sunkersing, PhD, from University College London, and colleagues investigated long COVID symptoms self-reported (Nov. 30, 2020, to March 23, 2022) via a digital application from 1,008 individuals.
The researchers found that among the 109 reported symptom categories, pain (26.5%), neuropsychological issues (18.4%), fatigue (14.3%) and dyspnea (7.4%) were the most prevalent. Per month since registration, the intensity of reported symptoms increased by 3.3%. Compared with those aged 18 to 27 years, those aged 68 to 77 years and those 78 to 87 years experienced higher symptom intensity (32.8% and 86% higher, respectively). Compared with men, women reported 9.2% more intense symptoms, and non-white individuals reported 23.5% more intense symptoms than white participants. Higher education levels were associated with less symptom intensity versus the lowest education levels (range: 27.7 to 62.8% less intense). Similarly, people residing in less deprived areas had less intense symptoms versus those in the most deprived areas.
“With ongoing occurrences of COVID-19 (e.g., LB.1, or D-FLiRT variants), the potential for more long COVID cases remains a pressing concern,” Sunkersing said in a statement. “Our findings can help shape targeted interventions and support strategies for those most at risk.”
Two authors disclosed ties to Living With Ltd.
