Take part in research
Research is essential to improving our understanding of Long Covid. This page lists studies that are currently looking for participants, along with some things to consider before deciding whether to take part.
Things to consider before taking part in a study
Joining a study is a personal decision. Here are some things to think about first.
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The time involved can vary significantly from one study to another.
Some studies may only ask you to complete a questionnaire or take part in a short online interview. Others may involve several visits to a clinic or hospital for tests, treatments, and follow-up appointments.
Taking part could therefore involve a single session, or it could last for several weeks or months.
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Every study has inclusion criteria, which set out who can take part. These may relate to factors such as age, location, or a specific diagnosis.
Studies also have exclusion criteria, which set out who cannot take part. These are usually in place to help keep participants safe and to give the study the best chance of producing useful results.
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It is worth thinking about how taking part might affect you, not only on the day itself, but in the days that follow.
Remember that it is not only physical tasks that can take a toll. You may also need to read and understand study information and give formal consent to take part. Concentrating for long periods, or spending time in noisy or brightly lit environments, can be just as tiring as physical activity.
A good research team will have considered this. Look out for things such as:
rest breaks during sessions
remote or online options
flexible scheduling
Open Studies
Browse the latest studies recruiting participants below. Each study has its own requirements, so it is worth reading the details carefully.
Post-Hospitalisation COVID-19 (PHOSP-COVID) study - 5 Year Follow-Up
Did you take part in the PHOSP-COVID Study? If so, it's time for the 5-year follow-up!
Study aims
This new phase of the study aims to build on earlier findings by assessing over time, individuals who were hospitalised with COVID-19. The information collected will help the researchers better understand the long-term effects of COVID-19, and help improve care, treatment and support for those affected by the virus.
Where
On-line.
What will happen
Those invited to take part will receive an email or letter containing a unique link to an online survey, which takes an estimated 20 minutes to complete. Responses are saved automatically, so it's possible to pause and return later using the same link and access code.
After completing the survey, participants will be invited to take part in a short set of cognitive tests, which can be done straight away or at another convenient time (it's best to use a computer or tablet).
Who
For this follow-up, participants who previously took part in the PHOSP-COVID study - and gave permission to be contacted again - will be invited to take part.
If you have any questions, please contact: phosp@leicester.ac.uk
Long Covid and the carotid chemoreflex
Study Aim
Some people with Long Covid experience exercise intolerance, breathlessness, and fatigue. Previous research suggests that the carotid bodies may play an important role in these symptoms and may be overactive in people with Long Covid. This study aims to investigate whether temporarily “switching off” the carotid bodies can improve breathing efficiency during exercise and reduce hyperventilation at rest.
For researchers
If you are conducting a study anywhere in the world and would like it to be featured here, please contact our research team.
Email: research@longcovid.org
Further information can also be found on our Research Involvement Consultancy page.