Empire State Review Team 
Shingles Vaccine May Lower Dementia Risk in Older Adults
A recent study published in the journal Nature has revealed that the shingles vaccine can potentially decrease the risk of dementia among older adults by 20% over a span of seven years.
Impact of the 1st-Generation Shingles Vaccine
The research focused on individuals in Wales who received the first-generation shingles vaccine, known as Zostavax, approximately ten years ago. Dr. Pascal Geldsetzer and his team examined over 280,000 medical records, concluding that vaccination offers notable protective effects against the development of dementia.
Dr. Maria Nagel from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus emphasized the importance of investigating whether the more current shingles vaccine, Shingrix, also provides similar benefits for cognitive health. Early indications from another study suggest it may be worthwhile to explore.
In collaboration with UK health officials, vaccine manufacturer GSK has launched efforts to monitor the cognitive health of seniors receiving the Shingrix vaccine.
Future Investigations
Dr. Geldsetzer aims to continue research on the original vaccine type to assess its respective effects further. The emerging findings from his team are a significant reason for adults to consider vaccination, especially since the virus can play a role in increasing dementia risk.
The Connection Between Shingles and Dementia
Research indicates that the virus responsible for shingles, which remains dormant in individuals who have had chickenpox, can be activated under certain conditions, such as a weakened immune system. This reactivation can lead to inflammation and other complications associated with cognitive decline.
Notably, a study from Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital previously indicated that experiencing shingles could elevate dementia risk by 20%. Treatment for shingles is vital not only for immediate pain relief but also for long-term health benefits.
What is Shingles?
Shingles, a condition that affects approximately 1 in 3 Americans, manifests as painful, blister-like sores, often on one side of the body. It is crucial for adults, particularly those aged 50 or older, to receive the vaccine regardless of previous shingles incidence. The Mayo Clinic suggests that individuals with compromised immune systems should also consider vaccination.
Conclusion
The correlation between shingles and dementia underscores the importance of vaccination as a proactive healthcare measure. As Dr. Anupam Jena of Harvard noted, “the implications of the study are profound,” given the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer’s and other dementias among the elderly population. The findings advocate for greater attention to vaccination as a means of supporting brain health in aging individuals.
Source: Information was gathered from The Associated Press and the Mayo Clinic.
