Can the shingles vaccine reduce the risk of dementia?

Studies suggest that individuals vaccinated against shingles appear less likely to develop dementia, showing reduced chronic inflammation and slower biological aging at a molecular level.

What are the unexpected benefits of vaccines like the shingles shot?

Beyond preventing infections, vaccines like the shingles vaccine may help slow aging and potentially reduce the risk of dementia by lowering chronic inflammation.

Who is eligible for the shingles vaccine in the UK?

In the UK, the NHS offers the shingles vaccine to adults turning 65, individuals aged 70 to 79, and those with severely weakened immune systems.

Home / Health / Vaccines May Slow Aging, Cut Dementia Risk

Vaccines May Slow Aging, Cut Dementia Risk

3 Feb

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Summary

Shingles vaccine linked to lower dementia risk in older adults.
Vaccinated individuals show reduced chronic inflammation.
Shingles vaccine may slow biological aging at a molecular level.

Vaccines May Slow Aging, Cut Dementia Risk

New research indicates that vaccines, especially the shingles vaccine, may have significant benefits for aging and brain health. Studies have observed that individuals vaccinated against shingles appear less likely to develop dementia. This association is supported by findings of reduced chronic inflammation and slower biological aging at a molecular level in vaccinated individuals.

These developments suggest that the immune system's ongoing effort to manage latent viruses, like the one causing shingles, could contribute to inflammation and aging. By preventing reactivations, vaccines may reduce this strain, offering a plausible mechanism for slower aging and a potential reduction in dementia risk.