Long Covid raises cardiovascular disease risk, Karolinska Institute study finds
Updated
Updated · The Irish Times · May 5
Long Covid raises cardiovascular disease risk, Karolinska Institute study finds
12 articles · Updated · The Irish Times · May 5
Using Stockholm health data on 1.2 million adults, researchers tracked 9,000 diagnosed cases for up to four years after mostly mild-to-moderate infections managed at home.
Women with Long Covid had more than double the cardiovascular risk, while men faced about 30% higher risk; arrhythmias and coronary heart disease showed the strongest links.
The study found no stroke association, but supports earlier US evidence and suggests persistent inflammation, immune changes and autonomic disruption may leave lasting heart effects.
Is a past mild Covid infection a hidden time bomb for your heart, especially for women?
How can doctors detect hidden heart damage in millions of Long Covid sufferers before it's too late?
If Covid is a vascular disease, are we treating Long Covid all wrong?
Long COVID Doubles Cardiovascular Risk in Women: A 40-Month Study of 1.2 Million Adults
Overview
A major study reveals that Long COVID significantly raises the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in adults aged 18 to 65, even those not hospitalized during their initial infection. Women with Long COVID face over twice the risk of developing CVD compared to unaffected women, while men have a 30% increased risk. This heightened risk is driven by biological mechanisms including endothelial dysfunction caused by the virus, persistent inflammation, abnormal blood clotting, and disrupted nitric oxide production, leading to heart and vascular damage. Additionally, women's stronger immune responses, hormonal changes after menopause, and healthcare disparities contribute to their greater vulnerability. These findings highlight the urgent need for gender-sensitive cardiovascular monitoring and care for Long COVID patients.