Shingles Vaccine May Delay Dementia Onset, Promising New Study Suggests

Recent research by Nature Medicine indicates that the latest shingles vaccine can delay the onset of dementia. Experts are optimistic but call for further investigation. The CDC recommends the vaccine, and public health measures such as diet, exercise, and minimizing pollution exposure are advised for dementia prevention.

A vaccine for shingles could potentially delay the diagnosis of dementia, recent research published in Nature Medicine reveals. As reported by CBS News, the study found that individuals who received the latest shingles vaccine experienced a delay in the onset of dementia by an average of 164 days compared to those who received previous vaccines.

Dr. Celine Gounder, a medical contributor for CBS News and editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, described the findings as exciting during her appearance on 'CBS Mornings.' 'The vaccine is already approved, readily available, and covered by insurance. Its demonstrated level of protection is truly promising,' she noted.

Dr. Sheona Scales, director of research at Alzheimer's Research UK, emphasized the importance of finding methods to reduce the risk of dementia. 'Dementia is not an inevitable part of aging; it is caused by diseases such as Alzheimer's. Therefore, discovering new ways to mitigate these risks is crucial,' Scales commented.

However, it remains unclear how the vaccine reduces the risk. Scales highlighted the need for further research to understand this association. The study's authors also stressed the importance of additional investigation, CBS News reported.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the shingles vaccine for everyone starting at age 50, consisting of two doses. 'The pressing question now is whether we should begin vaccinations earlier and if additional doses might be required,' Gounder mentioned.

Preventing dementia later in life involves general health practices such as controlling blood pressure, preventing diabetes through a healthy diet and exercise, and avoiding smoking. An emerging risk factor is air pollution from wildfire smoke, against which protection measures like indoor air filtration and wearing masks are advised, Gounder suggested.