This cross-sectional study examines the functional limitations of Long COVID (LC) in a clinically confirmed cohort ( n = 220). We collected sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle data via a structured electronic form and assessed daily limitations using the Post-COVID-19 Functional Status (PCFS) scale. Linear models were used to evaluate the association between symptom burden and functional limitations and to identify symptom-specific predictors of impairment. Participants had a mean age of 44.8 years, and 80.5% were women. A dose–response pattern linked higher symptom counts with worse PCFS grades in the multivariable-adjusted model ( β = 0.17; 95% CI 0.10–0.25; p < 0.001). In hierarchical models, fatigue, dizziness, and memory loss were independent predictors of greater functional limitations (crude β : fatigue 1.56; 95% CI 1.22–1.90; dizziness 1.08; 95% CI 0.81–1.34; and memory loss 1.26; 95% CI 0.97–1.55), cumulatively explaining 51.3% of the variance in functional limitations. In contrast, other common LC symptoms did not retain independent associations after adjustment. These findings highlight the value of simple symptom counts and targeted symptom profiles for risk stratification in primary care and occupational health and for planning rehabilitation and work ability assessment. Prospective studies should validate these indicators over time and explore the mechanisms linking neurocognitive and fatigue phenotypes with persistent disability.
Background and Aims: Long COVID (LC) is a condition characterized by the persistence of physical or psychological symptoms after acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. While its pathophysiology remains unclear, it is essential to identify acute‐phase risk factors associated with its development. This study aimed to investigate the association between symptoms during acute COVID‐19 and the risk of developing LC, and to evaluate the impact of LC on functional status in a nonhospitalized population.Methods: A retrospective observational case‐control study was conducted between May 2022 and March 2024 including 434 participants with confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Participants were classified as cases (those with LC; n = 226) or controls (those without LC; n = 208). Data were collected using a structured electronic form, including self‐reported sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle information. Severity and number of acute symptoms were recorded. Functional status was assessed using the Post‐COVID functional status (PCFS) Scale. Logistic and linear regression analyses were performed to explore associations, adjusted for potential confounders.Results: Severe acute COVID‐19 (defined as pneumonia or hospitalization) was associated with a significantly increased risk of LC (adjusted OR = 7.22; 95% CI: 2.79–18.70). Additionally, each additional symptom during the acute phase increased the odds of LC by 52% (adjusted OR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.35–1.77). Dyspnea and chest pain were the symptoms most strongly associated with LC.Conclusion: The severity and symptom burden of acute COVID‐19 are strongly associated with the development of LC and with long‐term functional impairment. These findings highlight the importance of early identification and follow‐up in patients with severe initial COVID‐19 symptoms.
Objectives: This study aimed to identify the most frequent consultations over 2 years in the Occupational Health Service of a Spanish multinational bank in Madrid. Methods: The authors performed a cross-sectional study; consultations were classified by ICD, sex, and age. Associations with sex, age group, month, year, and weekday were tested using Pearson's χ 2 ; age across categories was tested using with Kruskal-Wallis; and logistic regression estimated the effects of sex and age. The dataset lacked an indicator to distinguish occupational from nonoccupational causes; all visits were analyzed. Results: From June 2022 to June 2024, 6448 visits were recorded. Sex was balanced (48.5% men, 51.5% women); 58.6% were aged 35 to 50 years. Otolaryngology (32.4%) and traumatology (12.9%) predominated; upper respiratory infections led (24.6%). Significant associations appeared with sociodemographic ( P < 2.2 e − 16). Consultations varied by month (χ 2 , P < 0.05) and by weekday (χ 2 , P = 0.045). Conclusions: Results support resource planning and highlight the strategic role of occupational health services.
9 October 2025 in Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health