Can a Routine Vaccine Prevent Dementia?

The source provides an extensive overview of a surprising link between routine vaccinations and the prevention of cognitive decline and dementia. Specifically, the episode explores epidemiological evidence and biological mechanisms suggesting that shots like the tetanus (Tdap), shingles (Shingrix), and pneumococcal vaccines may significantly lower dementia risk, with reductions ranging from 20% to over 40% in various studies. The primary proposed mechanism involves vaccines boosting the immune system to combat chronic, low-grade neuroinflammation (termed "inflammaging") and preventing viral or bacterial infections that exacerbate brain damage. While acknowledging limitations like observational bias, the episode concludes that the evidence is compelling and suggests public health advisories should promote these existing immunizations as immediate, cost-effective neuroprotective tools.