Post COVID-19 Condition
The EuCARE-POSTCOVID study aims to understand 'Long COVID', where symptoms like tiredness or breathlessness can continue for weeks or months after the initial infection. Researchers are looking at people who have recovered from COVID-19 to find out how common these long-term symptoms are and what factors might predict who gets them. They are reviewing existing health information and also following new groups of patients. This international project involves experts working together to learn more about the effects of COVID-19, including how different virus types impact recovery and how to control its spread. Understanding Long COVID is really important as many people are affected, and this study hopes to shed light on why it happens and who is most at risk.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research project, called EuCARE-POSTCOVID, is focused on understanding a condition often called 'Long COVID'. This is when people experience new or continuing health problems three months or more after they first had COVID-19. These symptoms, which can be physical or psychological, might last for several months or even longer, and can't be explained by another health issue.
The study aims to figure out how many people develop Long COVID and what might make someone more likely to get it. They're doing this in two main ways: first, by looking back at medical information already collected from people who received care for COVID-19. Second, they will follow new groups of patients over time to carefully observe their recovery and any ongoing symptoms.
This is part of a larger international project called EuCARE, which brings together doctors, scientists, and other experts from many different countries. They are working together to get a better understanding of COVID-19, including how different types of the virus affect people, how our bodies fight it off, and how to prevent it from spreading further. By focusing on Long COVID, this particular study hopes to provide crucial insights into its causes and impacts, which could eventually help in finding better ways to support those affected.
Key takeaways
- The study aims to understand why some people get 'Long COVID'.
- They are looking at how common Long COVID is and what might cause it.
- This research does not involve new treatments, but rather observes health over time.
- Adults who tested positive for COVID-19 can potentially take part.
- Findings could help improve support and care for people with Long COVID.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you need to be an adult, which means you must be 18 years old or older. You also need to have had a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. This means a positive test result for the SARS CoV-2 virus, usually from a swatch taken from your nose or throat.
Your COVID-19 illness can have been mild, where you didn't need to go to the hospital, or more severe, where you did need hospital care. Even if you were in hospital for another reason but tested positive for COVID-19, you could still be eligible. Importantly, you would need to give your permission to be included in the study.
However, you wouldn't be able to take part if you sadly passed away during your hospital stay for COVID-19. Also, if you simply decide you don't want to participate, that's absolutely fine, and you wouldn't be included.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Did you have a confirmed positive COVID-19 test?
- Were you well enough not to die during a hospital stay for COVID-19?
- Are you willing to give your permission to take part?
What does participation involve?
In this study, you won't be given any new treatments or medications. Instead, the researchers will be watching and recording your health journey after you've had COVID-19. For some people, this will involve looking at health information that has already been collected from when you were receiving care. For others, it might mean regularly checking in with the study team to share how you're feeling and if you're experiencing any ongoing symptoms. The exact number of visits or check-ins will vary depending on whether your data is being looked at historically or if you're part of the group being followed currently. The overall aim is to understand how your health changes over time following COVID-19.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (7)
- University Hospital Heinrich HeineVerified postcodeDüsseldorf, Germany· Recruiting
- Policlinico "Tor Vergata", Università degli Studi di Roma TOR VERGATAVerified postcodeRome, Italy· Recruiting
- ASST Santi Paolo e CarloVerified postcodeMilan, Italy· Recruiting
- Vilnius University Hospital, Santaros KlinikosVerified postcodeVilnius, Lithuania· Recruiting
- Regional Hospital Dr. Juan Graham CasasúsVerified postcodeVillahermosa, Mexico· Recruiting
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa OcidentalVerified postcodeLisbon, Portugal· Recruiting
- St. Mary Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'Long COVID'?
Long COVID is when you have new or ongoing symptoms three months or more after you first got COVID-19, and these symptoms can't be explained by another health issue.
Who is running this study?
This study is part of a larger international project called EuCARE, involving many experts and research centres across different countries.
Will I be given any new medicine?
No, this study doesn't involve any new medicines or treatments. It's about observing and understanding the long-term effects of COVID-19.
How long will I be involved if I join?
The information isn't fully detailed, but the study looks at long-term effects, so it involves following people over a period of time after their COVID-19 illness.
Is my personal information kept private?
Yes, all your personal and health information will be kept strictly confidential by the researchers.
How to find out more
FRANCESCA INCARDONA, DR
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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