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Analysis of G-Med Physician Posts and Comments on the Topic of Shingles

Topics/keywords: ‘shingles’  Data types: posts, comments, likes, polls  Data types: global physicians, physicians by region


 

Analyzed data points: 4,145

Specialties: GPs/Family Medicine; Neurology; Dermatology; Internal Medicine; Oncology

Countries analyzed: 59

Reach: 136,125

Introduction

This report presents a detailed analysis of physicians' discussions on shingles, based on data collected from the G-Med platform. The report explores the primary concerns and opinions expressed by physicians regarding shingles diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Key insights have been gathered through sentiment analysis and statistical evaluation of the topics discussed, highlighting geographical differences and trends in medical approaches. A keyword-based approach identified recurring concerns, and statistics were likewise compiled from post interactions (views, comments, and likes). Contrasting opinions on various topics were quantified and presented as percentages.


The findings provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges, innovations, and regional preferences regarding shingles, shedding light on the sentiments and strategies favored by medical professionals.

Main Concerns of G-Med Physicians on the Topic of Shingles

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Treatment Efficacy (59% of physician discussions): Physicians frequently discuss the effectiveness of various treatments, such as different antivirals, and the use of second line therapies.

  • 73% of physicians express satisfaction with the effectiveness of current treatments for shingles.

  • 21% of physicians hold a balanced view, acknowledging the effectiveness of treatments while recognizing the limitations or the need for further evidence.

  • 6% of physicians indicate concerns or dissatisfaction with certain treatments, citing issues such as side effects, limited efficacy, or challenges in patient response.


Patient Management (34%): There is significant focus on the management of shingles in patients with multiple co-morbidities, risk factors and contraindications.

  • Over 90% of physicians express positive sentiments on the topic of patient management, indicating strong confidence in managing shingles in patients with multiple co-morbidities, emphasizing tailored treatment plans and comprehensive care.

  • Vaccine-Related Concerns (29%): While not the main focus, some physicians express concerns about the relationship between other vaccinations and the activation or prevention of shingles.

  • Herpetic Complications (24%): Discussions often highlight concerns about complications arising from herpes zoster, including postherpetic neuralgia and other long-term effects on patients.

  • 61% of physicians express optimism about managing herpetic complications, with a focus on effective treatments.

  • 13% of physicians reflect concerns about challenges in treatment of severe complications.

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Main Points Concerning Shingles Diagnosis, Treatment, and Follow-up

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Diagnosis (17% of physician discussions):

  • Physicians emphasize the importance of early and accurate diagnosis of shingles to treat and manage symptoms effectively and prevent complications.

  • Diagnostic discussions often include identifying non-characteristic rash patterns and differentiating shingles from other dermatological conditions.


Treatment (24% of physician discussions):

  • The primary treatments discussed (10% of physician discussions) are antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir.

  • Pain management strategies are a significant point of discussion, including the use of analgesics for neuropathic pain, nerve blocks, and, in some cases, corticosteroids.

  • There are significant queries on chronic pain management and how to further treat patients who have failed fourth- or fifth-line analgesic therapies.

  • Alternative treatments, like quinine tablets, are also mentioned, though their efficacy is debated among physicians.


Follow-up (7% of physician discussions):

  • Follow-up care discussions focus on monitoring for complications, particularly chronic postherpetic neuralgia.

  • Physicians recommend regular follow-up visits to manage chronic pain and other long-term effects of shingles that significantly impact their patient’s quality of life

  • There is an emphasis on patient education about potential triggers and measures to prevent recurrence.


Prevention (20% of physician discussions):

  • Strategies for improving shingles vaccination uptake are frequently discussed. Physicians share that preventing long-term complications is often a good incentive for patients to get vaccinated.

  • Physicians also discuss the optimal age for starting shingles vaccination in immunocompetent patients, often sharing the norms in their respective countries.

  • There are debates and uncertainties about whether the shingles vaccine could provide additional benefits for other medical conditions.

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Geographical Differences in Physicians’ Shingles Concerns by Region or Country

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  • United Kingdom: UK physicians discuss public health vaccination strategies extensively, with concerns about potential side effects and contraindications.

  • United States: Physicians in the US emphasize the importance of the shingles vaccine, advanced pain management techniques, and strategies to manage postherpetic neuralgia for long-term patient care.

  • Australia: Australian physicians frequently focus on shingles in geriatrics and discuss public health initiatives aimed at increasing vaccination rates and awareness about shingles.

  • Canada: Canadian physicians show a strong interest in research and innovative treatments for shingles, with a focus on clinical trials and new drug developments, and emphasize thorough patient follow-up to monitor for complications.


These insights can help tailor communication and support strategies for physicians in different regions, addressing their specific concerns and focal points more effectively.

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Engagement Recommendations:

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  • As can be seen from the report, there are some knowledge gaps on the topic of shingles and its treatments which could be closed by an awareness campaign.

  • G-Med's Awareness Package could be a good fit here.

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