Connect with us

Media OutReach

New survey shows nearly 70% of older adults in Singapore underestimate their risk of shingles; only 1 in 4 plans to consult their doctor on prevention

Published

on

  • A survey by Ipsos, sponsored by GSK, found that while 63% of adults aged 50 years or over in Singapore were aware of shingles, only 29% recognised that 1 in 3 may develop the disease in their lifetime.
  • Less than half of respondents (44%) understood that shingles can increase the risk of stroke or heart attack; fewer (36%) knew that the risk for shingles further increases amongst those with underlying chronic health conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, or diabetes.
  • Only 1 in 4 intended to discuss shingles prevention with their doctor within the next three months.
  • Survey findings reinforce need for deeper understanding of shingles and to encourage older adults to consult their doctors on shingles prevention.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2025 – A new survey1 highlighted that 63% of older adults aged 50 years or over in Singapore recognised shingles, also known as herpes zoster, as a serious disease. However, two out of three underestimated their personal risk of contracting the disease. Despite the high awareness in this group, only 25% intended to discuss shingles prevention with their doctor within the next three months.

The survey further showed that only 44% of respondents understood that those who have had shingles are at a significantly higher risk of heart attack (+59%) and stroke (+35%) compared to those who have not had shingles.2

The survey also found that 36% of respondents know that the risk for shingles further increases amongst those with underlying chronic health conditions.3

A local study has earlier reported that more than 85% of Singaporean adults aged 60 years or over have declared having been diagnosed with at least one chronic health condition.4 The five most reported chronic health conditions amongst older adults in Singapore in 2020 were: high blood pressure or hypertension; high blood cholesterol or lipids; joint pain, arthritis, or nerve pain; high blood sugar or diabetes; and renal/kidney or urinary tract ailments.4

The “Shingles Awareness Tracking Survey” conducted by Ipsos, on behalf of GSK, surveyed 200 adults aged 50 years or over in July of this year to measure the level of public understanding and perceptions of shingles in Singapore.1

In the survey, only 48% of respondents understood that the virus which causes chickenpox during childhood, the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), can remain in the body and reactivate later in life to cause shingles. 5,6

VZV is present in most adults aged 50 years or over7 and may reactivate with advancing age.8 As people age, the strength of the immune system response to infection wanes, increasing the risk of developing shingles.9

Dr Asok Kurup, from the Infectious Diseases Care Department at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, explained, “In Singapore, more than 90% of adults aged 50 years or over carry this virus.10 This means one in three will eventually develop shingles.”9

The survey also showed that at least 70% of respondents could identify the common symptoms of shingles such as a painful rash at the affected site.5 Moreover, at least 60% understood that the disease could lead to long-term, potentially permanent, complications such as nerve pain, also known as Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN), that can last for years.11

PHN is the most common complication of shingles. It affects approximately 10% to 18% of people with the disease, and the risk of PHN increases with age.12

To help encourage more older adults to consult their doctors about shingles, GSK launched an initiative in October that hired and trained seniors aged 50 years or over to become community ambassadors for shingles awareness. These ambassadors have been participating in various wellness events and activities at ageing centres, where they share personal stories and encourage their peers to go and speak with their doctor about the disease and the ways to prevent it.

A shingles awareness community ambassador (left) demonstrates a simulation of long-term pain or postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a potential complication of shingles.11 Photo: GSK.

Ms Claire, who is in her forties, shared in a conversation with GSK, “When my father had shingles for the second time around, he was in his 60’s.13 And he came out one day, saying ‘Look, take a look at this,’ and there were rashes on his forehead and a little bit on his torso.13 He said that there was stinging pain,11 and I could feel that he was undergoing this pain because he did not wipe his face and wash. He would wake up a few times at night because of the pain on his forehead and body.”

Claire is a caregiver to her father, Christopher, who was diagnosed with shingles twice. Photo: GSK.
Claire is a caregiver to her father, Christopher, who was diagnosed with shingles twice. Photo: GSK.

“While we see that overall awareness continues to improve, we need to further strengthen the understanding of our communities on the increased risk of shingles amongst adults aged 50 years or over — and it can be prevented. Go speak with your doctor,” said Dr Asok.

References

1 Ipsos. Shingles Awareness Tracking Survey Wave 4: Consumers Singapore. August 2025. Version 1. Study reference: 25-023546-01. Client Use Only. Strictly Confidential.

2 Kim, M. C., Yun, S. C., Lee, H. B., Lee, P. H., Lee, S. W., Choi, S. H., Kim, Y. S., Woo, J. H., Kim, S. H., & Kwon, S. U. (2017). Herpes Zoster Increases the Risk of Stroke and Myocardial Infarction. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 70(2), 295–296. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2017.05.015

3 Steinmann M, Lampe D, Grosser J, Schmidt J, Hohoff ML, Fischer A, Greiner W. Risk factors for herpes zoster infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis unveiling common trends and heterogeneity patterns. Infection. 2024 Jun;52(3):1009-1026. doi: 10.1007/s15010-023-02156-y. Epub 2024 Jan 18. PMID: 38236326; PMCID: PMC11142967.

4 Chan, A., Malhotra, R., Visaria, A., Sung, P., Siok Seng, B. J., Ching, & Tan, Y. W. (2020). Transitions in health, employment, social engagement and intergenerational Transfers in Singapore Study (THE SIGNS Study) – II: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal analyses of Key aspects of Successful Ageing. Centre for Ageing Research and Education, Duke-NUS Medical School. https://www.duke-nus.edu.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/publications-docs/the-signs-study—ii-report-(revised).pdf?sfvrsn=b391ced0_0

5 Harpaz R et al. MMWR Recomm Rep 2008;57:1-30; quiz CE2-4.

6 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Herpes Zoster (Shingles). Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/hcp/clinical-overview.html. Accessed May 2022.

7 Johnson, R.W., et al. Herpes zoster epidemiology, management, and disease and economic burden in Europe: a multidisciplinary perspective. Therapeutic advances in vaccines. 2015;3(4):109-20.

8 Mueller, N.H., et al. Varicella zoster virus infection: clinical features, molecular pathogenesis of disease, and latency. Neurologic clinics. 2008;26(3):675-97.

9 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US). Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Prevention of Herpes Zoster. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5705a1.htm. Accessed May 2022.

10 Fatha N, et al. Int J Infect Dis. 2014;22:73-77.

11 World Health Organization (WHO). Shingles (Herpes Zoster): Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/shingles-(herpes-zoster)Accessed on 13 October 2025.

12 CDC;2024;1-3;Shingles Facts and Stats.

13 CDC; 2024;1-4; Shingles Symptoms and Complications.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About GSK

GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together. Find out more at .

About the Shingles Awareness Tracking Survey

The Shingles Awareness Tracking Survey was an online survey of 200 adults aged 50 years or over, conducted between 14 July to 31 July 2025 by Ipsos, on behalf of GSK. The purpose of this survey was to assess consumer awareness and perceptions of Shingles in Singapore.

Media OutReach

Banyan Group Residences Brings Latest Phuket Property Launches to Singapore

Published

on

Three new Laguna Phuket developments – spanning lakeside living, golf-front design and Angsana-branded luxury – to be showcased at Fairmont Singapore on 23–24 May

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2026 – Banyan Group Residences is bringing three of its most anticipated new residential launches to Singapore this month, with a two-day sales exhibition taking place at Fairmont Singapore, Orchard Room (4F) on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The event offers Singapore buyers a rare opportunity to explore and invest in some of Phuket’s most compelling new addresses, with dedicated sales teams on hand for private consultations.

Angsana Golf Residences Topaz

The exhibitions follow a year of record residential sales for Banyan Group Residences, as growing numbers of global investors look to Phuket as a safe haven for capital – drawn by the island’s political stability, strong rental yields, year-round lifestyle appeal, and the relative value it continues to offer against comparable markets. Demand has been particularly robust from buyers across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, with Singapore consistently ranking among the Group’s top source markets worldwide.

The three projects on show represent some of the most exciting new additions to Laguna Phuket – Asia’s premier integrated resort destination – and span a range of living concepts, price points, and design inspirations, united by the hallmark quality and hospitality expertise of Banyan Group Residences, Asia’s leading branded residential developer by volume.

“Singapore has long been one of our most important buyer markets, and we’re delighted to be returning with what we believe is our strongest line-up yet,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. “Whether you’re looking for a holiday retreat, a permanent base in a world-class resort community, or a smart long-term investment, this exhibition offers something genuinely compelling. High-quality property in a prime location at Laguna Phuket still represents outstanding value compared to equivalent homes in Singapore or other major cities.”

Bellaguna Lake Residences

Brand new blocks of Bellaguna Lake Residences will be revealed for the first time at the exhibition. Set beside a shimmering lake within Laguna Phuket – steps from Bang Tao Beach – the development takes its design cues from the sleek lines of a contemporary luxury yacht. Five elegantly elongated buildings feature dark wave-like façades and warm, light-filled interiors, with generous private terraces overlooking the lagoon. Residences include one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private rooftop pools, as well as a brand new category of two-bedroom residences with private pool.

Bellaguna is Banyan Group Residences’ newest residential brand, conceived specifically for premium year-round living outside of hotel inventory – yet fully supported by the Group’s renowned hospitality management standards.

Bellaguna Golf Residences

Set on land that once formed part of Phuket’s historic tin-mining landscape, Bellaguna Golf Residences draws its design identity from that heritage – soft horizontal lines and sculpted contours reinterpreted through a contemporary tropical lens. Low-rise buildings unfold amid lush gardens and a signature free-form pool, overlooking the fairways of the championship Laguna Golf Phuket course. A brand new block has also just been released for this project, which features a compact one-bedroom configuration, alongside one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private pools and sunset golf views.

Angsana Golf Residences Topaz

Inspired by the clarity and elegance of the topaz gemstone, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz comprises three gracefully curved low-rise buildings set within Laguna Phuket, with Sino-Portuguese design accents that subtly reference Phuket’s cultural heritage. The development offers two- and three-bedroom residences and exclusive penthouses with private rooftop pools, all enjoying panoramic views of the golf course, mountains, and the Andaman Sea. A signature rooftop ring-shaped pool completes the picture.

Show units are now available for all three projects at the Laguna Property Sales Gallery.

Banyan Living

Banyan Group has recently launched Banyan Living, a residential rental and marketing platform created to support owners of branded residences across the Group’s portfolio, while offering guests a professionally managed alternative to traditional home‑sharing platforms.

Developed as a structured, hospitality-led rental ecosystem, Banyan Living enables private owners to generate income from their residences, while providing guests who rent the properties assurance of the design integrity and professional service standards associated with Banyan Group.

Why Phuket, Why Now

Phuket continues to attract growing international interest as both a lifestyle destination and an investment market. Within Laguna Phuket, nationals of some 70 countries have chosen to make the resort community their home, drawn by year-round tropical living, world-class amenities, international schools, medical facilities, and a level of quality and security that is difficult to match elsewhere in the region.

Banyan Group Residences anticipates launching up to USD 1 billion in new luxury residential projects in Phuket over the next two to three years, reflecting the Group’s confidence in the market and the enduring strength of demand from international buyers.

Prospective buyers are welcome to visit the exhibition at Fairmont Singapore, Orchard Room (4F), on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026, between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. Private appointments can be arranged in advance by contacting the team directly.
Hashtag: #BanyanGroup #BanyanGroupResidences #LagunaPhuket

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Banyan Group

Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans more than 100 properties, over 140 spas and galleries, and 20-plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.

About Laguna Phuket

Laguna Phuket is Asia’s premier integrated resort destination, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the resort features six luxury hotels, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, fine dining, luxury spas, and branded residences. Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle services, a cashless payment system, and access to world-class recreational and wellness facilities.

About Banyan Group Residences

Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of leading hospitality pioneer Banyan Group, listed on the stock exchange of Singapore. With over 35 years of development experience and an impressive portfolio of residential brands to suit different lifestyles and budgets, it is Thailand’s leading lifestyle property developer with a strong and increasingly international pipeline of projects. The Group’s main residential brands include the flagship luxury Banyan Tree Residences, Angsana Residences, Dhawa Residences, Garrya Residences, Laguna Residences, Cassia Residences, Skypark, Laguna Lakelands, and Bellaguna.

Continue Reading

Media OutReach

CPF NH Foods Advances to Production Phase, Launches ‘CP Nippon’ Brand in Premium Processed Pork Partnership

Published

on

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2026 – Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CPF) and NH Foods Ltd. today announced that their joint venture, CPF NH Foods Co., Ltd., has officially commenced production at its modern manufacturing facility in Chachoengsao, Thailand, alongside the launch of a new premium brand, CP Nippon.

The start of operations follows the successful establishment of the joint venture in late 2025, combining CPF’s fully integrated supply chain and regional distribution network with NH Foods’ advanced food processing technologies and product development expertise. The facility now serves as the production hub for a new generation of high-quality processed meat products, targeting both domestic and export markets including Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and other key Asian destinations.

Prasit Boondoungprasert, Chief Executive Officer of CPF, said “Starting production and introducing CP Nippon brand mark an important milestone in our partnership with NH Foods. This collaboration enables us to move beyond primary production to premium processed products, creating greater value for Thailand’s pork industry while strengthening its position as a key exporter across Asia.”

The manufacturing facility integrates advanced production systems and stringent quality assurance processes aligned with international standards, reinforcing both companies’ commitment to food safety, traceability, and sustainability. By leveraging CPF’s high-quality raw material sourcing and NH Foods’ precision manufacturing know-how, the joint venture aims to set new benchmarks in processed meat production.

Fumio Maeda, President and Chief Executive Officer of NH Foods, added “The commencement of production represents a key milestone in our collaboration with CPF. By combining our strengths in technology and product innovation with CPF’s operational excellence, we are bringing together the rich culinary traditions of Japan and Thailand to deliver refined, high-quality food experiences to consumers across Asia.”

The product range under CP Nippon brand reflects NH Foods’ Japanese culinary expertise—rooted in the craftsmanship of ryōrinin—combined with CPF’s strength in high-quality sourcing and production.

Beyond product innovation, CPF NH Foods is committed to sustainable manufacturing practices, including efficient resource utilization and environmentally responsible operations, in line with CPF’s “Kitchen of the World” vision and both companies’ long-term sustainability goals.

Hashtag: #AsianFoodInnovation #CPFNHFoods #CPFNippon #KitchenOfTheWorld #FoodInnovation #CPF

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Charoen Pokphand Foods Plc (CPF)

Charoen Pokphand Foods Plc (CPF) is a leading global agro-industrial and food company, operating in 17 countries and exporting to more than 50 markets worldwide. Guided by its “Kitchen of the World” vision, CPF focuses on delivering safe, high-quality, and nutritious food through a vertically integrated business model. The company integrates technology and innovation across its operations while advancing sustainability and working toward a low-carbon, resilient food system that supports global food security.

About NH Foods
NH Foods Ltd., operates in the food industry with a focus on meat products and related processed foods. The group conducts its business globally, and targets both domestic and international markets for its diversified protein and food solutions portfolio.

Continue Reading

Media OutReach

Student Life and Campus Communities Are Becoming a Key Deciding Factor in Higher Education

Published

on

SINGAPORE- Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2026 – Beyond academic rankings and programme offerings, students today are placing increasing emphasis on campus life, wellbeing support, and a sense of belonging when choosing where to pursue higher education.

This shift reflects a broader trend across the sector, where institutions are being evaluated not only on academic outcomes, but also on their ability to provide holistic student experiences that support mental wellbeing, social integration, and career readiness.

At the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), student engagement has become a central pillar of the learning experience, with a wide network of student led clubs and communities designed to support both personal and professional development.

A Growing Priority: Belonging and Wellbeing

Industry observations indicate that students, particularly those transitioning from secondary education or arriving from overseas, often face challenges such as social isolation, cultural adjustment, and limited peer support networks. Research also highlights that being away from familiar support systems and adapting to a new cultural and academic environment can be an isolating process, contributing to increased stress, anxiety, and reduced perceived social support

To address this, SIM has developed a structured student life ecosystem supported by its Student Development initiatives and programmes such as Project1095, which emphasises learning beyond the classroom and holistic growth. With close to 80 student clubs and co-curricular activities available, students are provided with multiple avenues to build connections and integrate into campus life.

From Co-Curricular Activities to Career Readiness

Student clubs are increasingly seen as more than recreational clubs, playing a meaningful role in preparing students for the workforce. Participation in such communities enables students to develop transferable skills aligned with employer expectations, including leadership, collaboration, and communication.

At SIM, student led initiatives span a broad spectrum, from arts and cultural groups that foster creativity and teamwork through performances and events, to sports and wellness communities that promote physical resilience and discipline. Leadership platforms such as student councils provide opportunities for students to organise initiatives and represent the student body, while international student communities support cultural integration and inclusivity.

In addition, special interest and professional clubs offer exposure to industry trends and peer led learning. Collectively, these platforms provide practical experiences that complement academic programmes and contribute to graduates’ overall employability.

Reflecting a Broader Shift in Higher Education

The increasing importance placed on student life reflects a wider evolution in higher education, where institutions are expected to support both academic achievement and personal development.

By investing in student communities and engagement, institutions like SIM are responding to this shift, providing environments where students can not only gain qualifications, but also build networks, resilience, and a strong sense of identity.

As prospective students weigh their options, the availability of vibrant campus communities and support systems is likely to remain a key differentiator in the higher education landscape.

Reference:

  1. The experience of loneliness among international students participating in the BBC Loneliness Experiment: Thematic analysis of qualitative survey data – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666518223000189?
  2. Mental health concerns and needs of international students in higher education settings: A scoping review protocol – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12334020/
  3. SIM CCA – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/co-curricular-activities
  4. SIM Project 1095 – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit

Continue Reading

Trending