Introduction

In a major advancement for adult healthcare in Vietnam, a prominent event gathered leading experts from various medical disciplines, including nephrology, respiratory therapy, endocrinology, and rheumatic diseases, to confront the pressing issue of immunosenescence and disease burdens within the adult population. The highlight of this occasion was the unveiling of the “Shingles Prevention with Vaccination” guidebook aimed at healthcare professionals, a pivotal resource in the fight against shingles for adults over 50, especially those suffering from chronic illnesses.

The Comprehensive Guide

This comprehensive guide encapsulates vital information on the pathology, complications, and epidemiology of shingles, updating preventive measures tailored for Vietnam. It is the result of concerted efforts by medical experts across multiple associations and hospitals to create unified guidelines for shingles prevention.

Significance of Vaccination

Professor Dr. Nguyen Van Kinh, Vice President of the Vietnam Medical Association, underscored the significance of vaccination as a preventive measure against shingles, which has been available since 2006. 'From 2017 onward, more than 50 countries, including the United States, Canada, and the UK, have embraced shingles vaccination. Through this guide, we aim to empower healthcare professionals with information to guide patients, particularly those with underlying health conditions,' he stated.

Current Health Landscape

The current health landscape in Vietnam is alarming, with approximately 22 million individuals aged 18-69 living with chronic diseases, predominantly non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular ailments, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cancer. These statistics raise the stakes for proactive health measures like shingles vaccination.

Research and Risks

Research indicates that one in three adults will experience shingles in their lifetime, and over 90% of adults aged 50 and older harbor the dormant varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which significantly escalates their risk. Severe complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia, can last for more than three months, and shingles can lead to critical conditions such as vision and hearing loss.

Impact on Diabetic Patients

Prof. Dr. Tran Huu Dang, President of the Vietnam Endocrinology and Diabetes Association, emphasized the seriousness of shingles for diabetics, noting that it can severely impact blood sugar control and quality of life. 'Given its long-term effects and potential complications, proactive prevention of shingles is essential,' he urged.

Understanding Shingles

Shingles, known medically as herpes zoster, manifests through painful blisters and can last from two to four weeks, causing debilitating discomfort and extending beyond physical pain to affect quality of life significantly. The condition presents an added economic burden not only on patients but also on the healthcare system.

Challenges in Treatment

Experts acknowledge that shingles treatment and the management of associated complications can be intricate, particularly considering that antiviral medication must be administered within 72 hours of symptom onset for effectiveness. However, timely intervention remains a challenge in practice, as older patients often juggle multiple medications due to pre-existing conditions.

Holistic Health Approach

In addition to vaccination, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine health screenings can significantly bolster adult health and longevity.

Importance of this Event

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thi Xuyen, President of the Vietnam Medical Association, reiterated the importance of vaccination as a key preventive tool against infectious diseases. 'Vaccines help reduce the disease burden and improve overall quality of life while alleviating pressures on our healthcare system. This shingles guidebook is a vital asset for healthcare professionals aiming to support their patients better,' she stated.

Conclusion

The recent summit not only marked the launch of the guidebook but also spotlighted Vietnam’s commitment to enhanced public health. As part of a series of international scientific summits hosted by GSK for healthcare professionals in emerging markets, this event places Vietnam at the forefront of global health initiatives, alongside countries like Colombia and the UAE.

Future Developments

Stay tuned for more developments in adult healthcare, as advancements in vaccinations pave the way for healthier futures!