Women and ethnic minorities are more likely to experience more intense symptoms of long Covid, a study has revealed.
Researchers at University College London (UCL) analysed data from more than 1,000 people in England and Wales who logged their symptoms of the illness on an app between November 2020 and March 2022.
Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) suggests around 1.9m people in the UK are living with long Covid, with sufferers reporting symptoms of the virus more than 12 weeks after initial infection. Patients say the condition can be debilitating and affects their work, social life and mental health.
Women reported 9.2 per cent more intense symptoms, including pain, than men.
Ethnicity was also found to influence symptom severity, as non-white participants with long Covid reported 23.5 per cent more intense symptoms compared to white individuals.
Pain, including headache, joint pain and stomach pain, was the most common symptom, reported by 26.5 per cent of participants.
The other most common symptoms were neuropsychological issues such as anxiety and depression (18.4 per cent), fatigue (14.3 per cent), and shortness of breath (7.4 per cent).
Lead author Dr David Sunkersing, of UCL's Institute of Health Informatics, said: “Our study highlights pain as a predominant self-reported symptom in long Covid, but it also shows how demographic factors appear to play a significant role in symptom severity.
“With ongoing occurrences of Covid-19, the potential for more long Covid cases remains a pressing concern. Our findings can help shape targeted interventions and support strategies for those most at risk.”
Socioeconomic status was also found to influence symptom intensity, the study found, with participants from less deprived areas reporting less intense symptoms than those from the most deprived areas.
However, the number of symptoms did not significantly vary according to socioeconomic status, suggesting that while deprivation may worsen symptom intensity, it does not necessarily lead to a broader range of symptoms.
The researchers called for sustained support for long Covid clinics and the development of treatment strategies that prioritise pain management, alongside other symptoms such as fatigue.
The study also underscored the need for healthcare policies that addressed these disparities, ensuring equitable care for all individuals affected by long Covid, they added.
There is currently no evidence-based treatment for long Covid and treatment focus on symptom management.
