A new study published in the journal Nature has found that a shingles vaccination can lower the risk of dementia in older adults by 20% over a period of seven years. The research, which analyzed data from over 280,000 medical records in Wales, suggests that the vaccine may offer additional protection against dementia beyond its ability to prevent painful shingles.
The study’s lead researcher, Dr. Pascal Geldsetzer, notes that women appear to benefit more from the vaccination, as they are at higher risk of developing dementia. The findings add to growing understanding of how various factors influence brain health with age and what interventions can be effective in promoting healthy aging.
It is essential for people aged 50 and older to consider getting vaccinated against shingles, particularly those who have already received a first-generation vaccine such as Zostavax. The new vaccine, Shingrix, has been proven more effective than its predecessor and offers a one-time vaccination given in two doses. While there is no proven prevention for dementia, doctors recommend maintaining social and cognitive activity, controlling high blood pressure, and managing diabetes to lower the risk of cognitive decline.
The study’s results highlight the potential benefits of shingles vaccination beyond its primary purpose of preventing painful shingles. As more research emerges on this topic, it may become increasingly clear that certain vaccines can offer protection against dementia and other age-related diseases.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/wireStory/shingles-awful-reason-vaccinated-fight-dementia-120414662