In this episode of the Global Heart Podcast, we explore the ongoing impact of COVID-19 through the lens of long COVID and its relationship with cardiovascular disease.
Although no longer dominating headlines, long COVID remains a significant global health challenge. Drawing on recent research and global studies, our expert guests unpack what long COVID is, who is most at risk, and why it continues to affect patients and health systems worldwide .
Prof. Karen Sliwa shares insights from a large international study involving over 2,500 patients across 16 countries, highlighting the persistent burden of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, anxiety, and reduced mobility—sometimes lasting up to a year after infection .
Prof. Amitava Banerjee explains the broader implications of long COVID as part of post-viral syndromes and discusses emerging evidence on the role of vaccination in reducing both infection severity and long-term complications .
Together, they discuss:
- Why long COVID remains a major public health issue despite declining attention
- The link between cardiovascular risk factors and more severe outcomes
- Persistent symptoms and their impact on quality of life and recovery
- The role of vaccination in preventing long COVID and improving recovery
- Why integrated, multidisciplinary care is essential for managing long COVID
- Key lessons from the pandemic for future preparedness and health systems
This episode is particularly relevant for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers, as well as anyone interested in understanding the long-term impact of COVID-19 on heart health.
