The Big Story Can the shingles vaccine actually lower the risk of dementia?
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May 26, 2025 In an insightful conversation, Sabina Vohra-Miller, founder of Unambiguous Science, discusses a groundbreaking study from Stanford University. The research reveals that older adults vaccinated against shingles have a 20% lower risk of developing dementia over seven years. Sabina delves into how various health factors can influence vaccine efficacy and highlights the surprising link between the Shingrix vaccine and cognitive health. The conversation also addresses vaccine anxiety, emphasizing the importance of empathy in discussions about vaccinations.
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Shingles Vaccine Lowers Dementia Risk
- The shingles vaccine reduces the likelihood of developing dementia by about 20% in older adults over seven years.
- This finding is supported by three natural experiment design studies that mimic randomized control trials.
Vaccines and Dementia Connection
- Multiple vaccines, including shingles and flu shots, have been linked to a reduced risk of dementia, suggesting a broader immune-related effect.
- The reduction may stem from fewer infections, lower inflammation, or immune modulation by vaccines.
Study Design Minimizes Confounders
- Natural experiment design studies reduce confounding variables like diet or exercise by comparing age groups closely spaced in weeks.
- This method strengthens the claim that shingles vaccine itself impacts dementia risk, not external lifestyle factors.