Key message: Women were more likely than men to report Long Covid symptoms one year after infection.
Aim of the study
Sex differences in Long Covid were assessed one year after infection, including prevalence, differences between males and females, and factors associated with persistence or recovery.
Who was included
2,698 people (both genders) in Spain who had COVID-19
Participants reported ongoing symptoms one year after infection
Data included both males and females across a range of ages
Hospitalisation data were obtained from the Catalan Health System (the public healthcare system in Catalonia, Spain)
What did the researchers do?
Participants completed questionnaires on ongoing symptoms
Researchers assessed symptom persistence and recovery at 12 months
Medical records were reviewed for clinical outcomes
Statistical models were used to identify factors associated with Long Covid, analysed separately for males and females
What symptoms or outcomes were most common
Ongoing symptoms up to one year after infection
Fatigue was the most commonly reported symptom in both males and females
Differences in the number and persistence of symptoms between sexes
Recovery patterns at 12 months
Key findings
Women were more likely than men to report Long Covid symptoms at 12 months
Women reported a higher number and persistence of symptoms, with fatigue most commonly reported
Recovery rates at 12 months were lower in women compared to men
In women, hypertension was associated with a lower likelihood of Long Covid
In men, more severe initial COVID-19 illness was associated with higher likelihood
Overall symptom patterns were broadly similar between males and females
No significant differences were observed in hospital admissions
How should these results be interpreted
This was an observational study, (meaning researchers observed what happened without intervening, so findings show links rather than cause and effect).
These findings support evidence of sex differences in Long Covid, although causality remains uncertain.
Symptoms were self-reported and may not be fully accurate
The use of an open questionnaire means some symptoms may not have been captured consistently
Results from Spain may not apply to all populations
What this means
For people living with Long Covid
Women may be more likely to experience persistent Long Covid symptoms after one year.
For healthcare workers
Some individuals may experience multiple ongoing symptoms, including fatigue.
For the healthcare system
Recovery may vary and take longer for some individuals.
Awareness of these differences may support improved recognition and care.
Important note: This summary is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned about your symptoms, please speak to a healthcare professional.