Post-COVID-19 Condition Affects 8.4% of U.S. Adults in 2023

The prevalence of post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) among adults in the United States was reported at 8.4% in 2023, as indicated by a research letter published in JAMA Network Open. This study utilized data from the National Health Interview Survey conducted in the same year, which included responses from 29,522 participants.

According to the findings, of the respondents, 8.4% reported having experienced PCC at any time, while 3.6% indicated they currently have PCC. Additionally, 2.3% of those surveyed reported having PCC that limits their daily activities. The study identified significant variations in prevalence based on several demographic factors, including sex, sexual orientation, age, race and Hispanic origin, family income, and the degree of urbanization of the respondents' living areas.

One notable trend observed in the study was the inverse relationship between family income and the prevalence of PCC. As family income increased, the percentage of adults who reported ever experiencing PCC, currently having PCC, or suffering from activity-limiting PCC decreased. Conversely, the prevalence of these conditions tended to rise among individuals residing in more rural areas.

Among those currently experiencing PCC, a substantial 64.5% reported symptoms that significantly limited their activities. This data underscores the growing concern regarding the long-term effects of COVID-19 and its implications for public health.

The authors of the study emphasized that their research supports the Department of Health and Human Services' initiatives to evaluate the overall burden of PCC across the U.S. population. This insight is crucial for understanding how COVID-19 continues to impact health outcomes and healthcare systems.

As the healthcare community continues to navigate the ramifications of the pandemic, further research will be essential in addressing the needs of those affected by post-COVID conditions. Understanding the prevalence and impact of PCC is vital for developing strategies to support individuals and inform public health policies moving forward.