Public Health

A global survey conducted by GSK across nine countries has revealed that 56.6% of Indians aged 50 and above are unaware of shingles, despite 90% of them carrying the virus in their bodies. Released during Shingles Awareness Week, the findings underscore a critical gap in awareness about age-related health risks and the need for better public health education. Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus responsible for chickenpox—is a painful disease that can lead to severe and long-lasting complications. While the virus remains dormant in most individuals, it can reactivate with age as the immune system weakens. Symptoms often include a painful rash, burning or stabbing pain, and, in some cases, chronic nerve damage known as post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). Severe cases may also result in vision loss or an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. The survey highlighted that 61% of Indian respondents aged 50 and above reported having chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or chronic kidney disease. However, only 49.8% expressed significant concern about developing shingles. Globally, awareness levels were even lower, with only 13% of those with chronic illnesses viewing shingles as a major health concern. Commenting on the findings, Shalini Menon, Medical Director at GSK India, stated, “The survey results highlight a concerning gap in awareness, which underscores the importance of educating individuals about age-related health risks. Proactive health management, including regular screenings, healthy lifestyle choices, and discussions with healthcare providers about vaccination, can significantly improve health outcomes for older adults.” Despite the lack of awareness, the survey also revealed a positive perception of ageing among Indian respondents. Over 55.7% reported feeling younger than their actual age, with 24% stating they feel at least a decade younger. However, only 25% of Indian respondents actively take steps to prevent age-related diseases, emphasizing the need for greater education and proactive health measures. Shingles Awareness Week, organized in collaboration with the International Federation on Ageing (IFA), aims to promote informed discussions between older adults and healthcare professionals. The initiative encourages individuals to recognize the risks associated with ageing and take preventive steps to safeguard their health. The global survey, conducted by Ipsos on behalf of GSK, gathered responses from 8,400 adults aged 50–60 across Brazil, China, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Portugal, and the USA. In India, 500 respondents participated in the study, which explored perceptions of ageing, awareness of age-related diseases, and the impact of declining immune function on health. Shingles typically presents as a rash with painful blisters across the chest, abdomen, or face. The pain, often described as aching or shock-like, can persist for weeks or even months. The most common complication, post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), affects 5–30% of shingles cases and can lead to chronic nerve pain. In rare cases, shingles can cause vision impairment or severe cardiovascular complications. Source: Business Standard