Shingles Vaccine May Lower Risk of Heart Problems, Study Finds

Quick Summary

• study Objective: A new observational study finds shingles vaccine zostavax is associated with significantly reduced cardiovascular risk.
• Key Findings:

– Vaccination cut the risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure, or death due to heart disease by 26% compared to unvaccinated individuals.
– Risk reductions varied across groups:
– Men: 27% vs. Women: 20%.
– Younger (<60 years): 27% vs. Older (≥60 years): 16%. - rural residents: 25% vs.Urban residents: 20%. - Low-income individuals showed greater reduction than higher earners.

• Mechanism: By preventing shingles, the vaccine may reduce inflammation and clot formation in blood vessels linked to cardiovascular issues.
• Effect Duration: Protective benefits peaked at two to three years post-vaccination and diminished gradually over five years.
• Further Research Areas: scientists plan to study shingrix, a newer recombinant vaccine potentially offering stronger protection due to its higher efficacy in preventing shingles.

For more details A shingles vaccine seems to provide additional benefits
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