Five social service agencies in Singapore have joined forces to launch the nation’s first shingles awareness movement, supported by pharmaceutical company GSK. The initiative, unveiled at a nostalgia-themed event titled “Shielding from Shingles,” aims to educate seniors and their caregivers about the health risks associated with shingles and the preventive measures available.
The event, held at The GlassDome in Far East Square, was organised by GSK and attended by over 100 seniors from various ageing centres. It featured participation from caregivers and local celebrities, including the OG Gang—Mediacorp Artistes Chen Shu Cheng, Richard Low, and Zhu Hou Ren—and Cynthia Koh. The programme is designed to foster a community-driven approach to shingles education, encouraging open discussions about the disease’s impact.
A medical expert at the event highlighted the increased risk of severe shingles complications for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes and chronic kidney disease. This is particularly pertinent in Singapore, where 21.8% of those aged 60 and above live with diabetes, and heart attack incidence is expected to nearly triple by 2050.
Shingles, or herpes zoster, affects approximately 30,000 people annually in Singapore. Despite the high prevalence, a recent survey revealed that only one in four individuals has consulted or plans to consult a doctor about the condition. The movement seeks to bridge this gap by leveraging the community networks of Diabetes Singapore, Lion Befrienders, Presbyterian Community Services, SASCO, and TOUCH Community Services.
