Title: Study Finds 14% of Americans Suffered from Long COVID, Impacts Mental Health
A recent investigation conducted by researchers from the University College London and Dartmouth College has shed light on the prevalence of long COVID among Americans. The study, based on data collected from the US Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey, revealed that by the end of 2022, approximately 14% of Americans had been affected by long COVID.
Long COVID, a condition where individuals experience persistent symptoms after recovering from COVID-19, has been a subject of growing concern. The study found that Americans who reported having long COVID also experienced higher levels of anxiety, low mood, and difficulty with memory. These findings highlight the significant impact that long COVID can have on a person’s overall well-being.
The investigation surveyed 461,550 respondents between June 2022 and December 2022, making it one of the largest studies on long COVID to date. Among those who had previously been infected with COVID-19, 13.3% reported severe symptoms. However, for those who developed long COVID, the percentage of severe symptoms rose to 24% during the initial illness and 31% currently.
While there is still much to learn about long COVID, this study provides valuable insights into its prevalence and impact. Of the respondents who had long COVID, 7% said they were still experiencing ongoing symptoms. Additionally, women and individuals with lower levels of education were found to be more likely to report long COVID.
The study also identified regional differences in the prevalence of long COVID. The highest rate was observed in West Virginia, where long COVID affected 18% of the population, while the lowest rate was found in Hawaii, with 11% of the population affected.
To further understand and address the challenges posed by long COVID, researchers have reached an agreement on the “Core Outcome Measure Set” (COMS). This set includes various physical and mental health outcomes, such as fatigue or exhaustion, pain, post-exertion symptoms, and work or study changes. The development of this measurement tool will enable clinicians to better evaluate and treat individuals with long COVID, marking an essential step towards effective treatments.
In conclusion, the study highlights the concerning prevalence of long COVID among Americans. It underscores the need for further research and medical interventions to address the physical and mental health challenges faced by those with long COVID. By providing more insight into the impact of this condition, the study contributes to a better understanding of long COVID and paves the way for the development of targeted treatments.
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