Long-Term effects of COVID-19 on blood pressure control and cardiovascular complications: a multicenter cohort study

This multicenter cohort study was designed to assess long-term effects of COVID-19 on blood pressure control and cardiovascular events in the convalescent stage of the disease in Uzbekistan. The present study was prospective and included 1200 adults with COVID-19 over a period of 12 months after hospital discharge. Information on clinical parameters like blood pressure values, history of comorbid conditions, and occurrence of cardiovascular events was noted and examined at regular intervals. The findings indicated that 38% of the patients had suboptimal blood pressure control during the follow-up period, 19% above their pre-COVID-19 levels. Furthermore, 22% of the study participants experienced at least one cardiovascular event, namely arrhythmia, heart failure, or thromboembolic disorders. Multivariate analysis identified a strong association between intensive care unit admission due to COVID-19 and increased risk of hypertension (hazard ratio: 2.1, 95% confidence interval: 1.6–2.8) and cardiovascular events (hazard ratio: 1.8, 95% confidence interval: 1.3–2.4). In addition, age >50 years and history of previous hypertension were found to be independent predictors for the worsening of hypertension. The results of this study emphasize the necessity of long-term monitoring of COVID-19 recovered individuals, especially in risk groups for cardiovascular disease.