COVID-19 Infection, Immunization and Lung Function Parameters in a Community of Bangladesh: A Cross- Sectional Study
Introduction: COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has affected millions worldwide, leading to significant acute and long-term health challenges. Post-COVID syndrome often includes persistent respiratory symptoms and reduced lung function, with limited data from Bangladesh on these sequelae. Aim: This study aimed to assess socio-demographic, clinical, vaccination status, and lung function parameters in patients following COVID-19 infection and assess the effects of these parameters on post-COVID symptoms. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2022 to July 2023 on 1,000 RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 recovered patients aged e”18 years in Gazipur, Bangladesh. Data on demographics, comorbidities, vaccination status, and clinical symptoms were collected through structured interviews. Lung function was assessed using spirometry (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC), and the six-minute walk test (6MWD). Data analysis was performed using SPSS with descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The cohort was predominantly male (56.1%) and married (77.1%), with most patients aged >50 years. Underweight prevalence was high (38.1%), and 30.6% were current smokers. Hypertension (17.7%) and diabetes (10.2%) were the most common comorbidities. Common symptoms included fever (92.7%), cough (88.3%), breathlessness (53.6%), and fatigue (49.7%). Only 22.9% were fully vaccinated. Spirometry showed reduced lung volumes (mean FEV1: 1.78 L, FVC: 2.49 L) with a mean FEV1/FVC ratio of 77.26%. The 6MWD averaged 325.46 m, indicating impaired exercise capacity. Conclusion: Fever, cough, breathlessness, and fatigue were the most common symptoms of COVID-19 infection. Mean spirometric parameters and six-minute walk distance were reduced in patients with COVID-19 infection even 4 weeks after recovery. The majority of respondents (72.8%) had received at least one dose of vaccination against COVID-19. Chest Heart J. 2024; 48(2) : 83-89