A groundbreaking study published in *BMC Medicine* has unveiled alarming statistics regarding long COVID, a condition affecting many who have recovered from COVID-19. Between 2021 and 2023, about 23% of individuals who contracted COVID-19 went on to develop long COVID, with more than half of these patients experiencing symptoms that persisted for an astonishing two years!

Researchers from ISGlobal identified several key risk factors that could increase the likelihood of developing long COVID. Marianna Karachaliou, a coauthor of the study, stated, “Women, individuals with a history of severe COVID-19 infection, and those with pre-existing chronic conditions like asthma are at a higher risk.” Interestingly, the study also highlighted that people categorized as obese and those exhibiting high levels of IgG antibodies before vaccination are more prone to this debilitating condition.

According to the CDC, long COVID is defined as a persistent condition that arises after a SARS-CoV-2 infection lasting at least three months and manifests a variety of symptoms that can fluctuate in intensity. Factors that further elevate the risk of developing long COVID include being female, older adults aged 65 and above, having severe COVID-19 cases, existing health conditions, and unvaccinated status.

Despite available knowledge about these risk factors, researchers noted a significant gap in our understanding of how long COVID progresses over time. In the recently conducted study, they examined a diverse population in Catalonia, focusing on clinical, sociodemographic, and lifestyle factors through comprehensive surveys. Data was collected from participants across multiple time periods between June 2020 and May 2023.

From the study, 2,764 COVID-19 patients were evaluated, and a staggering 23.4% reported experiencing long COVID symptoms. The most common symptoms reported were neurological (63%), muscular (39%), respiratory (28%), and psychological (21%). The participants were classified into three main subgroups with distinct symptom profiles: a group with predominantly neurological symptoms, a cohort showing mild respiratory issues, and a third group, severe multiorgan, exhibiting a mix of psychological, neurological, respiratory, and musculoskeletal symptoms.

Of particular concern, among individuals reporting long COVID in 2021, a shocking 56% continued to experience symptoms in 2023—specifically high risk was noted within the severe multiorgan group. It became evident that women face a greater risk than men, and educational background seemed to play a role as well; those with lower education levels had higher susceptibility. Interestingly, older adults above 65 showed comparatively lower risks, while patients with chronic illnesses, particularly those suffering from anxiety or depression, were at heightened risk.

Severity also played a critical role in risk assessment. Patients who experienced mild to moderate infections were three times more likely to develop long COVID compared to asymptomatic individuals; however, those with severe cases had a ninefold increased risk. Importantly, vaccinations appeared to offer substantial protection, notably reducing the risk of long COVID, particularly among those who received multiple doses.

Judith Garcia-Aymerich, another researcher at ISGlobal, emphasized the significance of these findings, stating, “A considerable percentage of the population is suffering from long COVID, affecting their quality of life. Collaborating with international researchers is crucial to determine the applicability of these results across different populations.”

This study underscores the ongoing battle against COVID-19, revealing that the virus's impact extends far beyond the immediate threat. As our understanding of long COVID continues to evolve, the necessity for further research and public health initiatives has never been more apparent. Stay tuned as we follow this developing story and uncover more about the long-term effects of COVID-19!