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White Blood Cell Count Can Act as a Predictor of COVID-19 Severity in Postmenopausal Women: Study

Researchers in a new study published in Menopause, the journal of The Menopause Society, say that the number of leukocytes (white blood cells), which is a cheap and easy-to-find clinical marker of inflammation, could help doctors predict how badly COVID-19 will affect women who have gone through menopause. This discovery offers hope for better identification and management of high-risk individuals before they develop debilitating symptoms.

Despite significant advancements in treatment, COVID-19 remains a serious health concern for millions worldwide. Many patients continue to experience long-term effects of the disease, including cognitive impairment and fatigue, with cognitive issues affecting up to 70% of those recovering from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Older adults, especially women, are particularly vulnerable to these prolonged complications.

The study, based on a secondary analysis of data from the Women’s Health Initiative, aimed to identify preexisting risk factors that make postmenopausal women more susceptible to severe COVID-19 symptoms. Researchers examined leukocyte count as a potential predictor, given its role as a clinical marker of systemic inflammation.

Results confirmed that leukocyte count is an independent predictor of COVID-19 symptom severity in postmenopausal women. Notably, the study adds to the body's evidence that low-grade inflammation can happen before and after severe COVID-19 symptoms, making people more likely to have adverse outcomes.

The findings underscore the importance of systemic inflammation in COVID-19 severity and pave the way for further research into early intervention strategies. By using the leukocyte count to find people who are at risk, doctors may be able to take preventative steps, like closer monitoring and starting treatment sooner, to lessen the virus's long-term effects.

Dr. Monica Christmas, associate medical director for The Menopause Society, emphasised the significance of this research: “As the authors highlight, post-acute sequelae of severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 infection significantly affect quality of life, often leading to severe disability. This effect is particularly pronounced in women, who already experience higher rates of cognitive impairment after menopause. By understanding underlying factors, we can better address these challenges and work to mitigate the cascade of symptoms that follow.”

The research presents a promising step forward, despite the need for additional studies to confirm and expand upon these findings. Given that leukocyte count is an inexpensive and routinely measured clinical marker, its potential role in predicting severe COVID-19 symptoms could significantly enhance patient care. In the future, researchers may look into whether targeted interventions that aim to lower systemic inflammation before an infection can improve outcomes for people who are more likely to get sick.

As the world continues to grapple with the long-term effects of COVID-19, studies like these highlight the necessity of personalised healthcare strategies. Recognising pre-pandemic inflammation markers may be a crucial advantage in protecting the most vulnerable individuals from severe disease progression.


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