A recent international study suggests that white blood cell (leukocyte) count may serve as a key indicator for predicting severe Covid-19 outcomes in postmenopausal women.

Months after the initial Covid-19 diagnosis—caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus—millions continue to experience lingering effects. Among the most common symptoms are cognitive impairment and fatigue, with nearly 70% of patients affected by cognitive difficulties.

Older adults, particularly women, are at the highest risk, according to researchers from the US and Singapore. “Post-acute sequelae of Covid infection significantly impact quality of life, often leading to severe disability,” said Dr. Monica Christmas, Associate Medical Director for The Menopause Society.

“This effect is particularly pronounced in women, who already experience higher rates of cognitive impairment after menopause,” she added. “By understanding underlying factors, we can better address these challenges and work to mitigate the cascade of symptoms that follow.”

The study, conducted by researchers from Rush University, Harvard Medical School, and Ohio State University, aims to identify pre-existing risk factors that make older postmenopausal women more susceptible to severe and long-term Covid symptoms.

Specifically, researchers examined whether leukocyte count—a widely used clinical marker of systemic inflammation—is linked to Covid-19 severity.

The findings, published in the journal *Menopause*, confirm that leukocyte count is an independent predictor of Covid symptom severity in postmenopausal women. The study also reinforces the idea that low-grade inflammation is not just a consequence of severe Covid symptoms but may also precede acute infection.

While further research is needed, these results are promising. The study highlights leukocyte count as a readily available and cost-effective clinical marker, which could help in early identification of at-risk individuals and improve patient outcomes.