Study: Women 31% More Likely to Get Long COVID, Menopause Raises Risk
A recent study led by UT Health San Antonio has revealed that women are 31% more likely than men to develop long COVID, with those aged 40-55, particularly during menopause, being at the highest risk. This finding is supported by a European study involving experts from MedUni Vienna.
Long COVID, a chronic condition that persists for at least three months after SARS-CoV-2 infection, can manifest with symptoms that improve, worsen, or remain ongoing. Other high-risk groups include individuals with underlying conditions, severe COVID-19 outcomes, and those of Hispanic ethnicity. Vaccination, however, has been shown to reduce the risk of developing long COVID and provides protection against hospitalization and death from COVID-19.
The UT Health San Antonio study found that females have a risk ratio of 1.31 compared to males in developing long COVID. This is further supported by a European study led by Kathryn Hoffmann from MedUni Vienna, which identified women aged 40-55, especially those undergoing menopause, as a high-risk group.
In conclusion, women, particularly those aged 40-55 and undergoing menopause, are at a significantly higher risk of developing long COVID compared to other demographic groups. Vaccination is encouraged to reduce this risk and protect against severe COVID-19 outcomes.
