Interconnected Impacts of COVID-19: A Meta-Analysis on Public Health and Economic Disparities

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic had profound and wide-reaching impacts on global public health and economies, with significant regional variations. This meta-analysis examines these impacts, focusing on mortality, long-term health effects such as Long COVID, and the pandemic's economic consequences, especially in vulnerable sectors.

Methodology: This meta-analysis systematically reviewed 45 peer-reviewed studies from 2020 to 2023, examining the pandemic's public health and economic impacts globally. Studies were sourced from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. Data on mortality rates, healthcare system strain, mental health disorders, and economic performance were extracted, analyzed, and synthesized. Special attention was given to disparities between high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly regarding healthcare access, fiscal responses, and economic recovery.

Results: Public health systems were overwhelmed worldwide, with the highest mortality rates recorded in the Americas and Europe. Long COVID affected 10–30% of recovered individuals, contributing to ongoing healthcare burdens. Mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety, increased by 25–30% globally. Economically, global GDP contracted by 3.5% in 2020, with the most severe declines in tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors. Job losses were concentrated in vulnerable groups, especially in LMICs, where recovery was slower due to limited fiscal resources and vaccine access.

Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the interconnectedness of health and economic stability. While developed economies rebounded quicker, LMICs faced prolonged public health crises and deeper economic contractions. Strengthening healthcare infrastructures and fostering inclusive economic recovery are crucial for future resilience. Enhanced global cooperation is essential to mitigate disparities and ensure preparedness for future pandemics.