Epidemiology of Post-COVID Conditions Beyond 1 Year: A Cross-Sectional Study

February 2023 in “ Public Health ”

Shinichiro Morioka, Shinya Tsuzuki, Taketomo Maruki, Mari Terada, Yusuke Miyazato, Satoshi Kutsuna, Sho Saito, Yumiko Shimanishi, Kozue Takahashi, Mio Sanada, Shinobu Ashida, Masahiro Akashi, Chika Kuge, Yasuyo Osanai, Keiko Tanaka, Michiyo Suzuki, Kayoko Hayakawa, Norio Ohmagari

hair loss COVID-19 post-COVID conditions persistent fatigue shortness of breath cough dysosmia loss of concentration depressed mood

Studysummary This study found that more than one-quarter of patients experienced persistent symptoms up to 24 months after mild COVID-19, suggesting long-term effects even in less severe cases.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

This study surveyed 502 patients who had recovered from COVID-19 to investigate the persistence of post-COVID conditions beyond 12 months. It found that over 25% of patients experienced at least one symptom at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months post-recovery. Key findings include associations between moderate or severe COVID-19 and persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, and hair loss. Additionally, being female was linked to persistent dysosmia, hair loss, and loss of concentration, while younger age was associated with a depressed mood. The study highlights that long-term symptoms can persist even in patients who had mild acute COVID-19.