Over 90 percent of adults above the age of 50 carry the virus that causes shingles; yet only three percent of Singaporeans in this age group believe they are at high risk of developing the disease.

 

A GSK-sponsored Ipsos-MORI survey revealed only three-percent of Singaporeans aged 50 to 79 years believe they are at high risk of developing shingles in the next 12 months. The survey among 200 respondents further reported that while 40 percent believe shingles is serious, only six percent spoke to a healthcare professional (HCP) about protection against the disease.

It has been estimated that over 90 percent of adults above the age of 50 already carry the virus that causes shingles, and one in three adults will develop shingles in their lifetime. Shingles typically presents as an itchy rash, with painful blisters across the chest, abdomen or face. The pain associated with shingles is often described as burning, shooting or stabbing. Once the rash is gone, some patients can experience post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a painful condition which can last for several months. PHN is the most common complication of shingles.

Another study involving respondents from Singapore, alongside those from Hong Kong S.A.R., the Taiwan region, and South Korea, reported a similar finding of low perceived risk of shingles among the public. Presented at the 8th Asian Vaccine Conference in September last year, the study results showed a substantial knowledge gap among the public about the disease and its causes, long-term impact and at-risk population.

This week, from February 27 to March 5, GSK holds the Shingles Awareness Week in Singapore, aiming to help educate Singaporeans about shingles and the importance of protection against it. Activities lined up throughout the week include a health forum and several other efforts directed at the public, such as working with some celebrities to encourage adult Singaporeans to speak with their HCPs to learn more about shingles and the preventative steps they can take to reduce their risk of getting it. These include talks, seminars and an education booth at the Let’s Talk About Health Fair on March 4 to 5 at Suntec Convention Centre.

“Singapore is a fast-ageing country, with one in four Singaporeans reaching the age of at least 65 by 2030. Prevention of infectious diseases, such as shingles, is critically important to minimise ill health and hospitalisations among seniors. How can we encourage more Singaporeans to speak with their doctors about the risks and complications associated with shingles, as well as the available options to prevent it?” said Dr Carol Tan, a geriatrician from The Good Life Medical Center.

Dr Tan added: “We have learnt the costly lesson that if we do not prevent infections, not only can these affect the health of our people, especially the seniors, but these can also negatively impact the economic health of our nation.”

 

** To find out more about shingles, go to: www.agelessonline.net/a-painful-rash/

(** PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash/Alexandre Lecocq)