Survey finds widespread concern over shingles among older adults with chronic conditions

The survey found that 78 percent of respondents expressed concern about the impact of shingles on everyday activities, while 72 percent worried the disease could lead to prolonged hospitalization.

Yet despite these concerns, 54 percent said they had never proactively discussed shingles with a healthcare professional.

The findings underscore the need to integrate shingles prevention into the routine management of chronic diseases, researchers said.

The survey, conducted by Human8 and funded by GSK, gathered responses from 6,103 adults aged 50 to 70 across 10 countries, including Japan, China, Australia, Germany, Poland, France, United Arab Emirates, India, Canada, and Austria.

Participants were all living with at least one chronic condition, such as cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)/asthma – factors known to increase the risk of shingles and its complications.

Data were collected through a 15-question online survey covering risk awareness, the disease's impact on daily life, personal experiences, and the frequency of discussions with healthcare providers.

Respondents agreed to full transparency in data monitoring and the use of anonymized information for research purposes.

Among those who had experienced shingles, 42 percent reported severe pain that interfered with daily activities, while 33 percent said the illness forced them to take time off work or withdraw from social engagements.

Globally, one in three adults is at risk of developing shingles in their lifetime. The virus can reactivate and cause more severe illness in people with underlying conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease.

Clinical studies show that these conditions are associated with increased shingles risk by 34 percent, 38 percent, and 29 percent, respectively.

Despite widespread concern about complications, awareness of the link between weakened immunity, chronic illness, and shingles remains limited.

One in four respondents believed their chronic condition did not affect their immune system or their risk of developing shingles.

Nearly half, 46 percent, were unaware that underlying conditions could increase the likelihood of severe shingles.

Elena DeAngelis, country medical director at GSK Vietnam, said that while many adults recognize the importance of managing chronic diseases, fewer understand their broader impact on the immune system.

With age-related immune decline, conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease can further weaken the body's defenses, DeAngelis said.

Other chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, COPD, and asthma, also significantly increase the risk of shingles.

Understanding these risk factors is essential to making prevention a priority in healthy aging discussions, she added.

The survey spotlights the need for stronger public health education on the risks and impact of shingles among adults aged 50 and above living with chronic conditions, and calls for greater emphasis on proactive consultation with healthcare professionals as part of routine care.