Self-Perceived Decline in Memory and Concentration 9 and 12 months post COVID-19 infection

IntroductionCOVID-19 infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 has led to significant long-term health challenges, including Long COVID or Post-COVID condition, that can include symptoms such as cognitive decline, memory loss, and concentration issues. This study investigates the prevalence and risk factors of post-COVID cognitive symptoms among individuals tested for COVID-19. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Lisbon and Tagus Valley, targeting individuals tested for COVID-19 in August 2022. Participants were selected from a random sample of 10,000 individuals. Data were collected via computer-assisted telephone interviews at 9 and 12 months post-test, covering sociodemographic details, health behaviors, pre-existing conditions, and COVID-19 symptoms. The primary outcome was the presence of at least one cognitive symptom (memory loss and/or concentration issues) at 9 and 12 months. Additionally, each symptom was assessed individually, along with a composite outcome of both symptoms concurrently. ResultsAt 9 months, memory loss was reported by 24.87% of COVID-19 positive cases versus 10.20% of negatives, and concentration issues by 15.45% of positives versus 7.45% of negatives. At 12 months, memory loss prevalence was 16.67% for positives and 9.45% for negatives, while concentration issues were 9.82% for positives and 2.99% for negatives. Additionally, the prevalence of at least one cognitive symptom was 28.24% in positive cases at 9 months compared to 12.16% in negatives, and 17.81% versus 9.95% at 12 months. Female sex was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of cognitive symptoms at both time points. DiscussionThese findings underscore the enduring cognitive impact of COVID-19, with significant disparities in cognitive symptoms between COVID-19 positive and negative individuals observed at both 9 and 12 months post-infection. The higher prevalence of memory loss and concentration issues among COVID-19 positives suggests potential neurological sequelae linked to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Notably, the association of female sex with increased cognitive symptom prevalence warrants further investigation into gender-specific vulnerabilities or biological mechanisms underlying these disparities. Addressing these persistent cognitive symptoms is crucial for long-term patient management and underscores the need for targeted interventions and comprehensive post-COVID care strategies to mitigate long-lasting health implications.