Shingles Vaccination Shows Promise in Dementia Prevention

Vaccination against ringworm can lead to more painful rash than preventing – it can also help reduce the risk of developing dementia. A recent study associated with more than 280,000 old adults found that people who received herpes (herpes zoster) vaccine were 20% less likely to be 20% lower with dementia compared to those who did not get the shot. 

 “If the ringworm vaccine really helps prevent or delay dementia, it will be the major implications for clinical care, public health and dementia research,” the senior author of the study, Dr. Pascal Geldsetzer said and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Stanford University. 

A Natural Experiment in Wales  

Research took advantage of a unique vaccination program launched in Wales on September 1, 2013, inadvertently formed two comparable groups: the eligible person for the vaccine (who turned on or after that date or after 79 years) and those unqualified (who had already become 80 before the cutoff). 

This design allowed researchers to compare the results among almost identical population – only to pay attention to whether they have received the vaccine – reducing the structure of a random clinical test.  

The study reviewed the health records of individuals between the ages of 71 to 88, all of which were dementia-free at the beginning of the program. Researchers focused on those who turned 80 years old and just after the eligibility cutoff, ensuring that both groups were matched in major features such as overall health, education and healthcare. 

Significant Results Over Seven Years  

Published in the Nature Journal, findings showed that that vaccination had 20% less likely to receive dementia in a seven -year follow -up period. Interestingly, protective effects were more pronounced in women than men.  

Dr. Geldsetzer suggested that this may be due to the difference in immune system reactions or in the biological routes of dementia. He said, “Women usually have strong antibody reactions to vaccines, and both ringworm and dementia are more prevalent in women,” he said. 

What is Shingles?  

Ringworm is caused by varicella-joster virus-the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person is cured with chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body. It can re -activate later in life, especially in older adults or people with weaker immune systems, which leads to ringworms. This reconstruction can result in the result of nerve inflammation, severe pain, and other complications, some of which may contribute to neurological damage. 

Final Thoughts  

While more research is required to fully understand the link between herpes vaccination and prevention of dementia, this study adds hypnotic evidence in favor of widespread vaccination in older adults. As scientists continue to detect potential causes and prevention for dementia, simple and already available equipment such as vaccines can play a larger role than before. 

Disclaimer:  

(The views expressed are solely on the basis of research. Indiagnostic shall not be responsible for any damage caused to any person/organization directly or indirectly).