Prevalence and Risk Factors of Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 Among United States Veterans

Abstract

PurposeTo better understand Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) in the Veteran population, this study aims to determine the prevalence of PASC and identify risk factors associated with its development. MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included 363,825 Veterans that tested positive for COVID-19 between February 1, 2020, and September 30, 2022. The primary outcome was the development of PASC 30 to 180 days following an acute infection with SARS-CoV-2. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to examine factors associated with PASC. ResultsOf the 363,825 Veterans included in the analysis, 164,315 (45%) displayed symptoms of PASC. The Veterans in this analysis were predominantly male, non-Hispanic White, under the age of 65 years old, and lived in an urban residence. The strongest predictors for PASC included Non-Hispanic Black or African American race compared to Non-Hispanic White race (aOR=1.14), being between the ages of 50 and 64 compared to ages 50 and below (aOR=1.80), diabetes (aOR=8.46), and severe acute infection (aOR=1.42). ConclusionResults demonstrate potential health inequities for vulnerable individuals, as well as increased risk for individuals with pre-existing comorbidities. The prevalence of PASC provides estimates for future health care utilization. The risk factors identified can aid public health interventions to reduce the burden of PASC.