Zona - a risk underestimated in the elderly and chronic diseases
According to data released by Glaxo Smith Kline (GSK) in March, up to 78% of survey participants expressed concern that herpes zóster can disrupt daily life. In addition, 72% believe that this disease can lead to prolonged hospitalization. However, it is noteworthy that more than half (54%) of respondents said they have never proactively discussed herpes zóster with medical staff.
The survey was conducted on more than 6,000 people aged 50 and over in 10 countries, focusing on groups living with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney disease or respiratory disease. These are subjects at higher risk of zona and more prone to severe complications than healthy people.
The survey results show a noteworthy reality: despite concerns about the disease, people's understanding of risk factors is still limited. 1 in 4 people believe that chronic diseases do not affect the immune system or the risk of herpes zoster. At the same time, 46% of participants are not aware that underlying diseases can increase the severity of the disease.
Notably, among people who have had herpes zoster, 42% said they experienced severe pain that affected daily life. About 33% had to quit their jobs or limit their participation in social activities due to the disease.
Zona – a common but easily overlooked risk
Globally, it is estimated that 1 in 3 adults is at risk of getting herpes zoster throughout their lives. The disease is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus – the cause of chickenpox – which exists silently in the body and can break out when the immune system is weakened, especially in the elderly.
Dr. Elena DeAngelis, Medical Director, GSK Vietnam, said: zona usually manifests as a rash accompanied by blisters causing pain and burning, concentrated in the chest, abdomen or face. The pain can last even after the skin lesions have healed, called post-zona neuralgia – a common complication that can last for months, even years.
In addition, the disease can also cause dangerous complications such as affecting vision, increasing the risk of stroke or cardiovascular problems in some cases.
The combination of aging and chronic disease can weaken the immune system, thereby increasing the risk of herpes zóster. However, the inclusion of herpes zóster in the periodic health management program has not been given due attention.
In the context of population aging and increasing chronic diseases, zona is no longer a rare disease but has become a health issue that needs to be properly addressed. Experts recommend that people should not be subjective, and at the same time need to proactively protect their health through periodic medical examinations and consultations.
