Review Evidence synthesis – Global prevalence of post-COVID-19 condition: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective evidence, 2025, Taher et al

Evidence synthesis – Global prevalence of post-COVID-19 condition: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective evidence

Mohamed Kadry Taher, Talia Salzman, Allyson Banal, Kate Morissette, Francesca R. Domingo, Angela M. Cheung, Curtis L. Cooper, Laura Boland, Alexandra M. Zuckermann, Muhammad A. Mullah, Claudie Laprise, Roberto Colonna, Ayan Hashi, Prinon Rahman, Erin Collins, Tricia Corrin, Lisa A. Waddell, Jason E. Pagaduan, Rukshanda Ahmad, Alejandra P. Jaramillo Garcia

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Introduction
We investigated the prevalence of new or persistent manifestations experienced by COVID-19 survivors at 3 or more months after their initial infection, collectively known as post-COVID-19 condition (PCC).

Methods
We searched four electronic databases and major grey literature resources for prospective studies, systematic reviews, authoritative reports and population surveys. A random-effects meta-analysis pooled the prevalence data of 22 symptoms and outcomes. The GRADE approach was used to assess the certainty of evidence. PROSPERO CRD42021231476.

Results
Of 20 731 identified references, 194 met our inclusion criteria. These studies followed 483 531 individuals with confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis over periods of up to 2 years. Most focused on adults, nearly two-thirds were conducted in Europe and 63% were of high or moderate quality.

The supplementary search identified 17 systematic reviews, five authoritative reports and four population surveys that reported on PCC prevalence. Our analysis revealed that more than half of COVID-19 survivors experienced one or more symptoms more than a year after their initial infection.

The most common symptoms were fatigue; dyspnea; memory, sleep or concentration disturbances; depression; and pain. Limitation in returning to work was the most common outcome.

Prevalence tended to be higher among females, individuals hospitalized during their initial infection and those who experienced severe COVID-19 illness.

Conclusion
PCC presents a significant health burden, affecting some groups more than others. This information will help inform health care system policies and services for people living with PCC and those caring for them.

Link | PDF (Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada) [Open Access]