Risk factors associated with post−COVID-19 condition: A systematic review and meta-analysis (23 March 2023)

Summary

In this study, Tsampasian et al. looked at what the risk factors were for developing post−COVID-19 condition (also known as Long Covid).

The systematic review and meta-analysis of 41 studies, including 860 783 patients, found that female sex, older age, higher body mass index, smoking, preexisting comorbidities, and previous hospitalisation or ICU admission were risk factors significantly associated with developing Long Covid, and that SARS-CoV-2 vaccination with two doses was associated with lower risk of Long Covid.

The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis provide a profile of the characteristics associated with increased risk of developing Long Covid and suggest that vaccination may be protective against Long Covid.