Vaccines May Reduce Alzheimer’s and Dementia Risk
Most of us already know the importance of vaccinations for protecting against infectious diseases, especially as we get older. Flu shots, pneumonia vaccines, and even the shingles vaccine have been long recommended for keeping us healthy. However, new research shows that some of these same vaccines may do more than fend off illness; they could significantly lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
In recent studies, scientists have found that certain vaccinations appear to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s by as much as 40%. One large study, led by researchers at the University of Texas, looked at data from over 9,000 people. What they found was pretty eye-opening: people who got their annual flu shot were 17% less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those who didn’t. And if you’ve been getting regular flu shots over the years? The risk dropped by an additional 13%.
And it’s not just the flu vaccine. Other research points to similar benefits from vaccines for pneumonia, shingles, and even tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap) shot. A study looking at the pneumococcal vaccine, which protects against pneumonia, found that people who got the shot between the ages of 65 and 75 saw their risk of Alzheimer’s drop by up to 40%. That’s a huge reduction.
Researchers aren’t sure why these vaccines might help prevent Alzheimer’s, but they have a few good guesses. One theory is that vaccines keep your immune system in shape. Think of your immune system like a muscle; if you work it out regularly, it stays stronger. Vaccines might give your immune system that regular workout it needs to fight off infections and maybe even protect the brain from the kind of inflammation that leads to Alzheimer’s.
Another idea is that some infections, like herpes or pneumonia, could trigger Alzheimer’s in certain people. Vaccines help prevent these infections from flaring up, which may explain why vaccinated individuals are seeing better brain health down the road.
Now, if you’re thinking, “Okay, but isn’t it possible that people who get vaccinated are just healthier overall?”—you’re not alone. That’s a valid concern, and researchers have considered it. In the studies, they tried to control for things like general health habits, but of course, nothing is ever 100% certain. Still, the evidence they’ve gathered makes a pretty strong case.
Flu Shot
Here’s what you can do. You’re on the right track if you get your flu shot yearly. Keep it up. There’s more reason than ever to stay current on your vaccines, not just to avoid getting sick but potentially to protect your brain in the long run.
Pneumococcal Vaccine
In addition to the flu shot, there’s the pneumococcal vaccine, which helps prevent pneumonia and other infections. This one is typically recommended for people over 65, and the research suggests it could also reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s.
Shingles Vaccine
And don’t forget the shingles vaccine. A newer version called Shingrix has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia by about 17% compared to those who don’t get it. That’s a solid argument for getting vaccinated when you turn 50 to protect against shingles and potentially Alzheimer’s, too.
If you’re skeptical about vaccines, I hear you. The choice to get vaccinated is deeply personal, and no one’s forcing you to change your mind.
The research I’m talking about comes from large, credible studies that have examined thousands of people. They’ve found associations between vaccines and reduced Alzheimer’s risk. That said, correlation doesn’t equal causation. Just because people who get vaccinated seem to have a lower risk of Alzheimer’s doesn’t mean the vaccines are a magic cure. There could be other factors at play, like lifestyle habits or access to better healthcare. But the evidence we have so far makes a strong case for vaccines having some protective effect.
As we head into cold and flu season, staying up to date with these vaccines may protect you from getting sick and help keep your brain healthy and sharp as you age. It’s a simple, low-effort way to give your future self a little extra insurance against cognitive decline.
Reference Links:
Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease Following Influenza Vaccination: A Claims-Based Cohort Study Using Propensity Score Matching
Avram S Bukhbinder, Yaobin Ling, Omar Hasan, Xiaoqian Jiang, Yejin Kim, Kamal N Phelps, Rosemarie E Schmandt, Albert Amran, Ryan Coburn, Srivathsan Ramesh, Qian Xiao, Paul E Schulz
Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, Published 02 August 2022
The Impact of Routine Vaccinations on Alzheimer’s Disease Risk in Persons 65 Years and Older: A Claims-Based Cohort Study using Propensity Score Matching
Kristofer Harris, Yaobin Ling, Avram S. Bukhbinder, Luyao Chen, Kamal N. Phelps, Gabriela Cruz, Jenna Thomas, Yejin Kim, Xiaoqian Jiang, and Paul E. Schulza
Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, Published 12 September 2023
Vaccination Reduces Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and Other Neurodegenerative Disorders
Steven Lehrer and Peter H Rheinstein
DISCOVERY MEDICINE, Published on October 28, 2022
The recombinant shingles vaccine is associated with lower risk of dementia
Maxime Taquet, Quentin Dercon, John A. Todd & Paul J. Harrison
nature medicine, Published online: 25 July 2024
Call for a FREE Consultation (305) 296-3434
CAUTION: Check with your doctor before
beginning any diet or exercise program.
9/12/2024
