Investigating long-term health effects of COVID-19 in American Indians

Long-term consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 disease among American Indians: an ambidirectional cohort study in the Cherokee Nation

NIH-funded research Cherokee Nation · NIH-10912530

This study is looking at how COVID-19 affects the long-term health of American Indian people in the Cherokee Nation, focusing on ongoing symptoms like heart problems, fatigue, and mental health issues, to help improve care for those who are still feeling unwell after their infection.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCherokee Nation NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tahlequah, United States)
Project IDNIH-10912530 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the long-term health consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection among American Indian individuals living in the Cherokee Nation. It aims to identify and quantify symptoms that persist after the initial COVID-19 infection, such as heart issues, digestive problems, fatigue, and mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. By examining these long-term effects, the study seeks to develop guidelines for better management and care of affected individuals in the community. This research is particularly important given the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on American Indian populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are American Indian individuals who have experienced COVID-19 infection and are currently residing in the Cherokee Nation.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with COVID-19 or do not belong to the American Indian population may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management and treatment strategies for long-term COVID-19 symptoms in American Indian communities.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated significant long-term health effects following COVID-19, particularly in vulnerable populations, suggesting that this approach is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Tahlequah, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.