Long-Term Pulmonary Function in Healthcare Workers: A Spirometric Evaluation Three Years Post-COVID-19 Pandemic

Background: The long-term impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on pulmonary function remains insufficiently characterised, particularly among individuals who have experienced mild or asymptomatic disease. This study aimed to assess spirometric changes over a three-year period and evaluate potential associations with demographic and clinical variables. Methods: We retrospectively analysed spirometry data from 103 healthcare workers (HCWs) who underwent pulmonary function tests at three time points: before the pandemic (Time 0), one year post-pandemic (Time 1), and two years post-pandemic (Time 2). Linear regression models were employed to evaluate the impact of various factors, including age, BMI, gender, smoking status, history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, vaccination status prior to infection, and the number of infections, on changes in FVC and FEV₁. Results: A statistically significant decrease in both FVC and FEV₁ were observed at Time 1 and Time 2 compared to baseline (p < 0.05). Smoking habits were significantly associated with a greater decline in both FVC and FEV₁. Multiple infections were associated with larger reductions in FVC at Time 1. No significant associations were found with age, gender, BMI, or vaccination status. Even in the absence of severe symptoms of the disease, healthcare workers exhibited a measurable decline in pulmonary function over time. Smoking and reinfection emerged as relevant factors associated with reduced lung capacity. Conclusions: These findings emphasise the need for ongoing respiratory monitoring in occupational settings and the importance of targeted preventive measures.