Shingles Shot May Ward Off Dementia, Study Finds

Emerging research suggests that the shingles vaccine, commonly administered to individuals between 65 and 80, may significantly slow cognitive decline and reduce dementia risk. In 2021, an estimated 57 million people worldwide lived with dementia, highlighting the critical need for preventative measures.

Recent studies, including one analyzing data from 464,000 residents in Ontario, Canada, and populations in Australia, New Zealand, and Wales, found that the shingles vaccine reduced the incidence of dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Researchers estimate this protective effect averts approximately one in five new dementia diagnoses over a seven-year span.

Further investigations published in the Journals of Gerontology indicate that the vaccine's benefits extend beyond cognitive health. A study involving over 3,800 adults aged 70 and above revealed that vaccine recipients exhibited lower inflammation levels and higher healthy-aging scores.

The exact mechanisms behind these benefits are still under investigation. Theories suggest the vaccine might combat the effects of a reactivated chickenpox virus or provide a broader boost to the immune system, potentially enhancing white blood cell production. However, more research is needed to determine the duration of protection and its efficacy across different age groups.

While public health authorities currently recommend the vaccine for specific age brackets, ongoing clinical trials aim to answer remaining questions. These include the vaccine's long-term protective effects and potential benefits for younger adults, although the risk of serious side effects in this group is considered low.