Does the shingles vaccine reduce dementia risk?

Yes, new data suggests the shingles vaccine can meaningfully slow cognitive decline and reduce the risk of dementia by an estimated 20%.

What are the benefits of the shingles vaccine beyond dementia prevention?

Studies indicate the shingles vaccine may also lower inflammation levels and contribute to a better overall healthy aging score in older adults.

How many dementia diagnoses might the shingles vaccine avert?

Researchers estimate that shingles vaccination averts one in five new dementia diagnoses over a seven-year period.

Home / Health / Shingles Shot May Ward Off Dementia, Study Finds

Shingles Shot May Ward Off Dementia, Study Finds

14 Feb

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Summary

Shingles vaccine shows a 20% reduction in dementia risk.
Vaccine may also lower inflammation and improve healthy aging.
Research suggests the vaccine averts one in five new dementia diagnoses.

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.