LISTEN: An opportunity to participate in research for long COVID sufferers
A new study looking into the management of long COVID has opened in Essex and is looking for people living with the condition to take part.
The Long COVID Personalised Self-management support co-design and Evaluation (LISTEN) study will evaluate the effectiveness of a new self-management support programme, co-designed by people living with long COVID.
Long COVID is a new condition which is still being studied. It is defined as signs and symptoms that develop during or after COVID-19 and continue for more than 12 weeks and are not explained by an alternative diagnosis. Symptoms can include, but are not limited to, extreme tiredness, shortness of breath, loss of smell and muscle aches.
The study, which is supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, is running at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust.
Participants will be randomly selected into two groups, one receiving the LISTEN support package, which will involve digital resources and up to six, one-to-one video or telephone call support sessions, with the other group receiving their usual care.
The study is open to anyone over 18 who has been experiencing long Covid symptoms for 12 weeks or more and has consulted with their GP.
Clinical Research Nurse, Leanne Durdle, who is leading the study at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It is great to have the opportunity to offer this important study into long Covid at our Trust.
“We know the impact that the condition can have on the lives of those who live with it and this study could be an important step in supporting those with the condition.”
Dr David Ho, Principal Investigator for the study at Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We welcome interest in the LISTEN study from patients with long Covid. This could be an important step in assisting people living with this debilitating illness.”
People taking part in the study don’t need to show a record of a positive COVID-19 test but must have experienced one or more of the symptoms consistent with COVID-19, including ongoing fatigue, breathlessness, chest pain, “brain fog” or muscle pain.
The LISTEN study is now open for recruitment. For more information, please visit www.listentrial.co.uk