Risk factors for Post-COVID-19 Syndrome in patients hospitalized for severe acute respiratory syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis.
Sofia Ramos Soares, Rafaela Santos Nogueira de Souza, Loreena Uchôa Lira Barros et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined factors associated with post-COVID-19 syndrome among patients discharged after hospitalization for severe acute respiratory syndrome. It reviewed observational studies published from 2020 to 2023; 45 studies contributed to the qualitative review and seven to the meta-analysis. Female sex (RR 1.52; 95%CI 1.26-1.85), hypertension (RR 1.25; 95%CI 1.06-1.49), and longer hospital stay (RR 1.01; 95%CI 1.01-1.03) were associated with syndrome development. These findings identify characteristics linked to post-discharge risk, but do not establish that they cause the syndrome.
Key findings
- Female sex was associated with post-COVID-19 syndrome (RR 1.52; 95%CI 1.26-1.85).
- Hypertension was associated with post-COVID-19 syndrome (RR 1.25; 95%CI 1.06-1.49).
- Longer hospital stay was associated with post-COVID-19 syndrome (RR 1.01; 95%CI 1.01-1.03).
Why it matters
Post-COVID-19 syndrome can develop after discharge from severe illness, and the review identifies several patient and hospitalization characteristics associated with its development. Recognising these associations may help inform follow-up and monitoring after discharge. Because the evidence comes from observational studies, the findings indicate risk markers rather than proven causes.
What to keep in mind
The meta-analysis included only seven observational studies, so the findings are based on a limited evidence base and cannot establish causation.