Kuala Lumpur, February 26, 2026 – A new global survey released by GSK reveals a significant disconnect between public concern about shingles and proactive conversations with healthcare providers regarding prevention. The findings, unveiled during Shingles Action Week (February 23 to March 1), indicate that a substantial 78 percent of adults worry shingles could disrupt their daily lives, and 72 percent fear potential long-term hospitalization. Despite these concerns, over half (54 percent) haven’t discussed the condition with a doctor.
The survey underscores a critical require to integrate shingles into broader discussions about chronic health conditions. As individuals age, their immune systems naturally weaken, making them more susceptible to the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus – the same virus that causes chickenpox – leading to shingles. This risk is further amplified for those managing pre-existing health issues.
The global study, encompassing over 6,000 adults aged 50 and over across ten countries, highlights the substantial impact shingles can have on quality of life. Forty-two percent of those who have experienced shingles reported severe pain that disrupted their daily routines, although 33 percent were forced to stop working or curtail social activities. Understanding the risks associated with shingles is a crucial step towards preventative care.
Shingles and Chronic Illness: A Growing Concern
Professor Zamberi Sekawi, president of the Malaysian Society of Infectious Diseases and Chemotherapy (MSIDC), emphasized that shingles is often overlooked during routine medical appointments, particularly for adults over 50 already managing chronic health concerns. “Shingles can cause severe pain and long-term complications that may significantly affect quality of life,” he stated. “In conjunction with Shingles Action Week, MSIDC hopes to raise greater awareness and encourage at-risk adults to feel confident in discussing shingles and preventive options, including vaccination, with their health care provider.”
Globally, up to one in three adults will experience shingles in their lifetime, and the risk is heightened for individuals with chronic conditions such as heart failure, diabetes, and renal failure. In Malaysia, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) – including diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and obesity – is a significant public health concern, with over two million adults affected, according to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023. Research indicates that cardiovascular disease increases shingles risk by 34 percent, and diabetes by 38 percent.
Awareness Gaps and the Importance of Proactive Discussion
Despite widespread concern about the potential complications of shingles, awareness regarding the connection between weakened immunity, chronic illness, and shingles reactivation remains low. The GSK survey revealed that 25 percent of respondents believe their chronic health condition does not impact their immune system or risk of shingles, and nearly half (46 percent) are unaware that their chronic health condition may increase their risk of severe shingles.
Dr. Alap Gandhi, Country Medical Director at GSK Malaysia, explained, “Many adults know that their chronic health condition requires regular management but may not realize how it can also affect their immune system. As our immunity naturally declines with age, conditions like diabetes and kidney disease can affect the immune system. Other chronic conditions, such as heart disease, COPD or asthma, also significantly increase the risk of developing shingles.” He further emphasized that understanding these risk factors is essential for prioritizing shingles prevention as part of a comprehensive healthy aging strategy.
The survey results highlight the need for increased public health education regarding the link between chronic health conditions, compromised immunity, and the increased risk of shingles. This reframes shingles awareness as an integral component of routine care for adults aged 50 and over living with chronic illnesses.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about shingles and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
As awareness grows and conversations between patients and healthcare providers increase, a more proactive approach to shingles prevention can be expected. Continued research and public health initiatives will be crucial in mitigating the impact of this often-debilitating condition. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.