Shingles: A Hidden Threat to Indian Adults
GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceutical (GSK) recently unveiled compelling insights from an international survey they commissioned. The study sheds light on critical gaps in comprehending the risks associated with shingles, particularly among individuals aged 50 and above, a demographic highly vulnerable to this ailment.
Unveiling Shingles: The Global Perspective
Conducted across 12 countries and encompassing 3,500 participants aged 50 and above, the survey aimed to gauge the respondents’ awareness of shingles, its triggers, and its profound impact on their lives.
The Indian Context: A Closer Look
Within India, 500 participants, equally divided between Hindi and English speakers, contributed to this enlightening survey. Timed to coincide with Shingles Awareness Week 2024 (26 February 2024 – 3 March 2024), the data uncovered a pervasive lack of understanding regarding shingles and its lifelong implications.
Alarming Findings: A Global Underestimation
The global scenario presents a stark reality – a significant majority, 86% to be precise, underestimate their susceptibility to shingles. Zooming into India, the numbers are equally concerning, with 81% of English speakers and a staggering 86% of Hindi speakers miscalculating their risk.
Perceptions vs. Reality: A Glimpse into India
In the Indian context, 22% of English speakers believe that only 1 in 1000 adults faces the risk of developing shingles. Meanwhile, among Hindi speakers, this perception stands at 18%. However, the truth reveals that, by the age of 50, most adults already harbor the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) responsible for shingles, lying dormant until later in life. Shingles emanates from the reactivation of the VZV, the same virus that causes chickenpox. As individuals age, the diminishing strength of their immune response amplifies the risk of shingles.
Expert Insights: Dr. Rashmi Hegde Speaks
Dr. Rashmi Hegde, Executive Vice President – Medical Affairs, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals, India, underscores the urgency to raise awareness about shingles risk in adults over 50. She emphasizes, “The survey findings underscore the need to raise awareness about shingles risk in adults over 50. Shingles can significantly disrupt the daily lives of aging adults and cause them a great deal of discomfort.”
In conclusion, the GSK survey acts as a clarion call to bridge the gap in shingles awareness. It is imperative to disseminate accurate information to empower individuals, fostering a proactive approach towards their health and well-being.
