Understanding Long COVID in Hawaii
Factors Responsible for the Development of Post-Acute Sequelae of Acute COVID Infection (PASC) In Hawaii
This project aims to understand why some people develop long-lasting breathing problems after a COVID-19 infection, especially among Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and Filipinos.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Hawaii at Manoa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Honolulu, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11115779 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people experience lingering symptoms, known as Long COVID or PASC, after recovering from acute COVID-19, with breathing difficulties and chronic cough being common. This project focuses on understanding why these lung-related symptoms, called pulmonary PASC (PPASC), develop and persist, particularly in Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Filipino communities who have been hit harder by COVID-19. Researchers are looking closely at specific immune cells called monocytes to see how they might contribute to PPASC. By studying these cells and other factors, we hope to uncover the biological reasons behind PPASC and how social and psychological aspects play a role.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who have recovered from acute COVID-19 but continue to experience chronic breathing problems or cough, especially those of Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, or Filipino descent, may be ideal candidates for future related studies.
Not a fit: Individuals who have not had COVID-19 or who have fully recovered without lingering symptoms would likely not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of pulmonary Long COVID, helping to develop new ways to prevent or treat these chronic breathing issues.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of monocytes in acute COVID-19 is known, this project explores their less understood contribution to the development and persistence of pulmonary Long COVID, building on preliminary findings.
Where this research is happening
Honolulu, United States
- University of Hawaii at Manoa — Honolulu, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Devendra, Gehan — University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Study coordinator: Devendra, Gehan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.