Shingles Shot: A Surprising Brain Booster?

A recent study has uncovered a surprising benefit of the shingles vaccine. It might not just prevent shingles but also protect your brain.

Key Findings

• Reduced Dementia Risk: Researchers found that people who got the vaccine were less likely to develop dementia.
• Improved Survival Rates: Vaccinated individuals had better survival rates even if they were diagnosed with dementia.
• Slowed Progression: The vaccine may slow down or even stop the progression of dementia.

Study Details

The study used a unique approach, comparing people eligible for the vaccine (born on or after September 2, 1933) with those who weren't (born before that date). Over seven years, vaccinated individuals were 20% less likely to be diagnosed with dementia.

Additional Benefits

• Mild Cognitive Impairment: The vaccine helped reduce the risk of mild cognitive impairment, the earliest stage of dementia.
• Heart Health: Another study found that the shingles vaccine can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Recommendations

The shingles vaccine is a two-dose vaccine recommended for everyone starting at age 50. With these new findings, there's even more reason to get vaccinated.