Estimating Long COVID-19 Prevalence Across Definitions and Forms of Sample Selection
May 2025
in “
Frontiers in Epidemiology
”
Studysummary In this study, researchers emphasized the need for standardized definitions and improved methodologies in assessing LC prevalence, suggesting that future research explore prospective cohorts to refine estimates and examine long-term health outcomes.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
This study at Luigi Sacco Hospital in Milan analyzed 3,344 COVID-19 patients to estimate long COVID (LC) prevalence, finding it varied from 67.4% to 80.2% depending on the definition used. Common symptoms included fatigue, dyspnea, and joint/muscle pain. Risk factors were female sex, metabolic disease, and older age, while antiplatelets, statins, and hypoglycemics were protective. The study highlighted the impact of selection bias and the need for standardized LC definitions and improved methods. It supports targeted interventions and calls for further research to refine LC prevalence estimates and explore long-term health outcomes.
