Shingles is a real concern for older adults, especially for those with weakened immune systems. Other chronic diseases, such as heart disease, COPD, or asthma, also significantly increase the risk of developing shingles. Only a doctor can diagnose and treat a medical condition like shingles / herpes zoster. Understanding these risk factors is an important step to prioritize shingles as part of the conversation about healthy aging.
In the context of an aging population and an increase in chronic conditions, moving towards a preventive approach is key to reducing complications associated with shingles and protecting long-term quality of life. The results of the 2026 Shingles Action Week Global Survey highlight the need to strengthen public health education and promote more informed and timely conversations about shingles among adults and healthcare professionals.
«The results of the 2026 Shingles Action Week Global Survey highlight the need to strengthen public health education and promote more informed and timely conversations about shingles among adults and healthcare professionals,» the statement says. Factors such as aging and pathologies such as cancer and HIV infection can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of developing shingles, a disease that affects 1 in 3 people* in their lifetime.
