2 weeks Ago
A new study has shown that women, those in middle age and those who are wealthier are among those most likely to be diagnosed by a GP with Long COVID. But that doesn't mean they're most likely to suffer from it. Instead, the report's authors are concerned about barriers to diagnosis for specific groups, especially those facing disadvantage.
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) estimates up to 10 per cent of COVID patients will develop Long COVID. While most people with COVID-19 recover completely within a few weeks, some experience longer-term effects. A universally accepted definition of Long COVID is yet to emerge but common symptoms can include shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, abdominal pain, nausea and even organ damage.
A recent Macquarie University study found that those with preexisting health problems — especially mental health conditions, respiratory conditions like asthma and emphysema, cancer, and musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis — were more likely to be diagnosed with Long COVID. The study — which surveyed seven million medical records in Victoria and NSW — also found women, those aged 40 to 59, and those of high socioeconomic status had higher Long COVID diagnosis rates than other groups. While the report's findings may lead some to think rich, middle-aged women are more likely to develop — not just be diagnosed with — Long COVID, that's not necessarily the takeaway message.
Impediments to Long COVID diagnosis One key consideration is the process of being diagnosed with Long COVID. Unlike COVID-19 itself, there's no accepted test for Long COVID. Instead, GPs — the only ones who can issue a formal Long.
.. Alexandra Koster.
