Hospitalisation for herpes zoster in people with and without diabetes: A 10-year-observational study

Aims This study explores the association between Herpes Zoster (HZ) hospitalizations and diabetes in Piedmont, Italy from 2010 to 2019. Focusing on the burden of HZ hospitalizations in diabetic and non-diabetic groups, it aims to identify risk factors in diabetics to enhance prevention strategies. Methods In a two-phase study, we first compared age-standardized HZ hospitalization rates between diabetic and non-diabetic individuals from 2010 to 2019. We then examined hospitalization risk factors for HZ within a diabetic patient cohort managed by regional diabetes clinics. Results Of 3,423 HZ hospitalizations in 2010–2019, 17.9 % (613 cases) were diabetic patients, who exhibited higher hospitalization rates (15.9 to 6.0 per 100,000) compared to non-diabetese individuals. Among diabetics subjects risk factors for HZ hospitalization included age over 65, obesity (BMI > 30), and poor glycemic control (HbA1c > 8.0 %). These patients had a 40 % increased rehospitalization risk and a 25 % higher risk of severe complications, such as stroke and myocardial infarction, post-HZ. Conclusions Diabetes markedly increases HZ hospitalization rates, rehospitalization, and complication risks. These findings underscore the need for preventive strategies, especially improved glycemic control among high-risk diabetic patients, to inform public health policies and clinical practices aimed at mitigating HZ's impact on this population.