Shingles Vaccine May Lower Dementia Risk in Older Adults
A groundbreaking study published in Nature has found that the shingles vaccine could potentially reduce the risk of developing dementia in older adults by as much as 20% over a span of seven years.
Insights from the Study
Conducted by Dr. Pascal Geldsetzer and his team at Stanford University, the research examined medical records of over 280,000 individuals, particularly focusing on those aged 80 and older who received the first-generation shingles vaccine, Zostavax, more than a decade ago in Wales.
Dr. Geldsetzer noted the promising findings, adding, “It’s a very robust finding,” which suggests that the vaccine may not only protect against shingles but also have implications for dementia prevention, especially in women, who tend to face a higher risk of cognitive decline.
Next Steps in Research
Research efforts are turning towards the newer shingles vaccine, Shingrix, to determine if it provides similar cognitive protection. Dr. Maria Nagel from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus mentions that preliminary studies by another group indicate that it may also help reduce dementia risk. Recently, vaccine manufacturer GSK initiated a collaboration with UK health authorities to monitor cognitive health among seniors receiving this vaccine.
Understanding Shingles
Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, affects nearly one in three Americans, primarily manifesting in painful blisters. This condition is particularly prevalent among older adults as their immune systems weaken with age. Complications from shingles can include severe nerve pain that persists long after the rash has healed.
Potential Link Between Shingles and Dementia
The connection between shingles and dementia remains an area of active investigation. Some researchers believe that viruses like herpes, which encompasses the chickenpox virus, can exacerbate underlying genetic and health vulnerabilities leading to dementia. In fact, a previous study indicated that experiencing shingles increases the risk of developing dementia by approximately 20% due to inflammation and potential damage to brain blood vessels.
Intriguingly, Dr. Nagel’s laboratory has discovered that shingles can trigger the formation of amyloid plaques, which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Conclusion
With increasing concerns about the rising rates of Alzheimer’s and other dementias among the aging population, the findings of this research underscore the importance of vaccination. “The virus is a risk for dementia, and now we have an intervention that can decrease the risk,” stated Dr. Nagel, highlighting the profound implications of this study.
As public health recommendations continue to evolve, it remains vital for individuals aged 50 and older, as well as those with compromised immune systems, to consider getting vaccinated against shingles.
Photo Illustration by Frank Bienewald/LightRocket via Getty Images
For More Information
To learn more about shingles and the importance of vaccination, visit the Mayo Clinic.
