A forum was recently held by Health News in Beijing to promote Shingles Awareness Week, which took place from Feb 27 to March 5. During the event, doctors and experts shared valuable insights on how to prevent this infectious disease, which frequently affects people above 50 years of age.
The incidence rate of shingles increases as the immune system function decreases with age. Data indicates that there are approximately 1.56 million new shingles patients aged over 50 years old in China every year. However, people of any age may be infected with shingles.
Professor Du Xueping from Yuetan Community Health Service Center in Beijing explained that people who have basic chronic diseases are especially vulnerable to shingles. Those with weakened immune systems should also be careful, and everyone should take precautions to prevent infection.
She advised that people with chronic diseases consult their family doctor to assess their risk of contracting shingles. They should maintain a healthy lifestyle focusing on diet, exercise, and adequate sleep. It’s also essential to get vaccinated in advance. If someone does develop shingles, they should consult their family doctor as soon as possible for prompt treatment.
Shingles can cause severe pain and rash, leading to significant discomfort and a reduced quality of life. To avoid these problems, people should take steps to reduce their risk of infection. Preventative measures include maintaining a healthy immune system, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and avoiding stress.
Other preventative measures recommended by experts include avoiding close contact with people who have shingles, especially if they have open sores. People should also avoid scratching or picking at any shingles-related rash or blisters. Finally, washing your hands regularly and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of shingles infection.
While shingles is a common illness, it can have serious health implications, especially for older adults. By following preventative measures, individuals can reduce their risk of infection and protect their overall health and well-being. The forum held by Health News serves as a crucial reminder that shingles is preventable, and everyone should take steps to reduce their risk of developing this condition.
Cui Yong, the deputy director of China-Japan Friendship Hospital, emphasized that shingles is one of the most painful skin diseases. He observed a surge in the number of shingles patients visiting the dermatology department after the recent Spring Festival. He suggested that the increase could be attributed to factors such as fast-paced work and low immune systems related to travel. Therefore, it is necessary to raise awareness about the risks of shingles among the middle-aged and elderly population.
Wu Hao, a member of the CPPCC National Committee, highlighted the importance of strengthening the construction of the general practice medical team and the management of chronic diseases in community health hospitals. Wu believes that improving the management of chronic diseases in community health hospitals can better serve the health of middle-aged and elderly people.
The Chinese government has been increasing its investment in the health sector, with a focus on general practice and community health services. The development of these services will help to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to the general public, especially the middle-aged and elderly.
Experts also recommend that people maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of shingles. A healthy lifestyle includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management. Vaccination is also essential in preventing shingles, and those who are vulnerable, such as people with chronic diseases, should consult their family doctors about their risk of being infected with shingles and get vaccinated in advance.
In conclusion, shingles is a painful skin disease that is most common in people above 50 years old. The recent increase in shingles patients could be attributed to various factors such as fast-paced work, travel, and weakened immune systems. To prevent shingles, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle, get vaccinated, and manage chronic diseases. The government should also strengthen the construction of general practice medical teams and community health services to improve healthcare for the middle-aged and elderly.Experts Share Insights on Preventing Shingles at Beijing ForumExperts Share Insights on Preventing Shingles at Beijing Forum