Title: VA Study Reveals Long-Term Health Effects of COVID-19 on Veterans
In a groundbreaking study conducted by the VA St. Louis Healthcare System, researchers have uncovered the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on veterans. This study utilized electronic healthcare databases from the VA, analyzing data from veterans who had been infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, between March 1, 2020, and December 31, 2020.
The study focused on a cohort of 138,818 participants who had contracted COVID-19, alongside a control group of 6,159,932 veterans who had not been infected. To comprehensively understand the postacute outcomes of COVID-19, a range of health conditions were examined. These included cardiovascular disorders, coagulation and hematologic disorders, diabetes, fatigue, gastrointestinal disorders, kidney disorders, mental health disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, neurologic disorders, pulmonary disorders, and overall postacute sequelae.
To determine the risks associated with these long-term health consequences, the study observed different time periods of follow-up. Incidence rates and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) were calculated to provide a deeper understanding of the impact on veterans’ overall well-being. Additionally, the study took into account baseline characteristics and potential confounding factors through inverse probability weighting and conducted sensitivity analyses for further validation.
The results of the study revealed significant risks of various postacute sequelae among veterans who had contracted COVID-19 compared to the control group. The most notable findings include a higher likelihood of cardiovascular disorders, coagulation and hematologic disorders, diabetes, fatigue, gastrointestinal disorders, kidney disorders, mental health disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, neurologic disorders, and pulmonary disorders.
These findings highlight the urgent need for continued research and healthcare support for individuals recovering from the virus. The study emphasizes the importance of providing comprehensive medical care to veterans affected by COVID-19 to address the extensive range of potential long-term health effects. With this new information, healthcare professionals can prioritize the right support and interventions to ensure the well-being of veterans affected by the virus.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, this study serves as a crucial reminder of the long-lasting impact the virus can have on individuals, particularly veterans who have sacrificed so much for their country. The VA St. Louis Healthcare System’s research sheds light on the challenges ahead, underscoring the importance of ongoing research, advocacy, and support for those recovering from COVID-19.
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