Survey shows older adults with chronic health conditions are hit hard by shingles

A new survey has highlighted the impact of shingles on older adults living with chronic health conditions in India, noting that 43% of those who have had the infection reported severe, day-disrupting pain, with over one in three reporting that it stopped them from working or attending social events.

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the Varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. It typically begins as a rash on one side, with painful blisters erupting on the chest, abdomen or face. It can only be prevented through vaccination.

The global survey, commissioned by GSK, had 752 Indian adults aged 50 to 70 years and living with chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes. The age-related decline in immunity, as well as such chronic diseases which affect 7.5 crore older Indians, makes them more vulnerable to shingles, said Shalini Menon, GSK India’s executive vice-president, elaborating on the survey’s findings during Shingles Action Week, which is marked from February 23 to March 1.

Vaccination conversations

The survey showed that patients with chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease experienced the greatest disruption due to shingles, while those with diabetes and cardiovascular disease reported the highest emotional toll.

It also highlighted that nearly one in four participants with these chronic health conditions knew little to nothing about shingles. Nearly 75% of participants report visiting their doctor regularly, yet 48% say they have never discussed shingles with a doctor. Nearly one in five believed that their chronic health condition does not impact their immune system nor their risk of shingles.

Immunisation is an important lever to protect older adults from this preventable disease, Dr. Menon said. With the survey revealing limited awareness about the link between chronic conditions and immune health among aging adults, she emphasised the importance of patients having regular informed conversations with their doctors and doctors initiating conversations on adult vaccination.