Campaign highlights shingles risk for chronic disease patients

A public health campaign recently launched in Beijing is drawing urgent attention to the elevated risk of shingles—also known as herpes zoster—among individuals living with chronic conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Guided by the China Disease Prevention and Control Center, the initiative aims to promote the integrated management of chronic diseases alongside vaccine-preventable infections.

Data presented during the campaign revealed that individuals with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or coronary heart disease face a 39% higher risk of developing shingles compared to the general population. Experts emphasize that for these patients, the combined impact of chronic illness and shingles can severely undermine disease management and diminish quality of life.

The Link Between Chronic Conditions and Shingles

Clinical experts are highlighting the specific dangers shingles poses to patients with underlying health issues. According to Li Ang, chief endocrinologist at Peking University First Hospital, diabetic patients who contract the virus often experience more severe pain and face a higher risk of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a complication characterized by persistent nerve pain that can last for months or even years. Research indicates that diabetic patients also experience significantly higher rates of hospitalization and complications when infected.

Similarly, cardiovascular patients tend to suffer from more intense and persistent pain than the general population. Fan Bifa, director of the pain department at China-Japan Friendship Hospital, described the sensation of shingles pain as burning, electric-shock-like, stabbing, or cutting. Beyond the immediate physical distress, physicians warn that the virus is not merely a painful rash; it can cause inflammation linked to serious cardiovascular complications, including heart attacks and strokes.

Understanding the Global Risk Profile

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. More than 90% of adults carry this dormant virus, and globally, approximately one in three people will develop shingles in their lifetime. While age is the most significant risk factor, with those over 50 being most vulnerable, individuals with compromised immune systems are also at a heightened risk.

Recent surveys in Ireland and Singapore highlight a widespread lack of understanding regarding these risks. Data from an Irish survey found that 29% of adults over 50 incorrectly believe that having had chickenpox in the past means they have a low risk of developing shingles, while nearly one in five mistakenly believe that having had shingles previously provides permanent immunity. In Singapore, a survey conducted by Ipsos for GSK found that two out of three older adults underestimate their personal risk of contracting the disease.

Moving Toward Proactive Prevention

To address these knowledge gaps, national health policies are increasingly encouraging collaboration between clinical care and public health services. In China, cities such as Beijing and Qingdao have launched pilot programs that integrate vaccination guidance into routine medical visits. Some community health centers have begun including vaccine reminders in health check-up reports and offering on-site vaccination services.

We want to address a common misunderstanding, said Yang Yingming, deputy director of a community health center in Beijing’s Changping District. Having a stable chronic condition does not mean vaccination is off-limits. It can be an appropriate and effective way to reduce disease risk.

Experts recommend that people over the age of 50, as well as those with stable chronic conditions, consult with their healthcare professionals—including doctors, practice nurses, or pharmacists—to discuss preventive measures. Vaccination, combined with healthy lifestyle practices, is considered a key strategy in mitigating the impact of this debilitating disease.

Quick Facts on Shingles