Scientists uncover potential link between certain vaccines and reduced dementia risk.
A new study on older adults has found that two vaccines – Shingrix for shingles and Arexyv for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – may offer protection against cognitive decline. The research, conducted by a team from the University of Oxford, suggests that the AS01 adjuvant in these vaccines plays a key role in lowering dementia risk.
The study, which included over 130,000 participants, revealed that receiving just one dose of Shingrix led to an 18% reduction in dementia risk compared to those who received only the flu vaccine. Those who received both Shingrix and Arexyv saw a 37% reduction. The findings indicate that vaccines “protect against dementia through mechanisms unrelated to the prevention of their target virus,” according to the study authors.
The research supports an emerging hypothesis: that dementia is not a brain disease, but rather a disorder of the immune system within the brain. This could imply that vaccines can help restore immune function and potentially prevent cognitive decline. Previous studies have shown that exposure to certain viruses can increase the risk of cognitive decline, while vaccines appear to reduce this risk.
The study’s findings are significant, as they suggest that two vaccines may be protecting against dementia through mechanisms beyond just preventing viral infections. While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, the results provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of these vaccines for brain health.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/huge-study-reveals-2-vaccines-that-appear-to-reduce-dementia-risk