Shingles Vaccine May Reduce Heart Disease Risk by 23%, Study Finds

A major new study reveals that the shingles vaccine not only protects against painful skin rashes but may also significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases in adults over 50.

Key Takeaways

Adults aged 50+ who received the shingles vaccine had a 23% lower risk of cardiovascular events.
This protective effect may last up to 8 years.
Risk reduction includes
- 26% lower risk of major events (heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death)
- 26% lower risk of heart failure
- 22% lower risk of coronary heart disease

Understanding Shingles and the Vaccine

Shingles is caused by a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. It affects 1 in 3 adults globally and can lead to serious complications, especially in older adults.

The shingles vaccine offers:

Over 90% protection against shingles in individuals aged 50 and above.
Protection that may extend beyond shingles, impacting brain and heart health.

New Study Links Shingles Vaccine to Heart Health

A recent large-scale study led by Dr. Sooji Lee, from the Center for Digital Health, Kyung Hee University Medical Center in South Korea, found that the shingles vaccine significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular events.

Study Overview:

Participants: Over 1.2 million adults aged 50+ in South Korea
Timeframe: From 2012 onward
Vaccine Used: Live zoster vaccine (contains weakened varicella-zoster virus)

Findings:

23% lower risk of any cardiovascular event
26% lower risk of major events such as
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Cardiovascular-related death
Significant risk reduction is also seen in
- Heart failure (26%)
- Coronary heart disease (22%)

How the Shingles Vaccine May Protect the Heart

According to Dr. Sooji Lee:

“Shingles can trigger inflammation in blood vessels, leading to heart problems. By preventing shingles, the vaccine may reduce this inflammation and thereby lower cardiovascular risks.”

Protective Duration:

Up to 8 years
Strongest protection seen in the first 2–3 years after vaccination

Expert Opinions on the Study

Dr. Dong Keon Yon, co-author of the study, stated:

“This is one of the largest and most comprehensive studies tracking a healthy general population for up to 12 years. It analyzed 18 different types of cardiovascular conditions.”

He emphasized the study's strength in adjusting for:

Lifestyle factors
Socioeconomic status
Other underlying conditions

However, he also warned,

“The study was based on an Asian population, so results may not apply to all ethnic groups. A causal link wasn’t established; further research is needed.”

Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, interventional cardiologist, adds:

“This highlights the urgent need to vaccinate eligible patients. The shingles virus increases inflammation and clotting risks, key factors in heart attacks and strokes.”

He also noted:

“This research helps us better understand how the shingles vaccine can protect vital organs, including the heart and brain.”

Dr. Grant Simons, Chief of Heart Rhythm Services, said:

“The magnitude of risk reduction was higher than expected, up to 26%. The duration of protection up to eight years is also notable.”

He acknowledged

While the findings are observational, the large sample size strengthens their validity.
Biological mechanisms are still being studied.

Limitations and the Need for More Research

While the study provides promising results, experts caution:

It does not confirm causation.
Further research in diverse populations is essential.
Future studies should investigate recombinant shingles vaccines, which are more widely used today and offer even higher effectiveness.

Final Thoughts

This study could reshape how healthcare professionals view shingles vaccination. While its primary goal is to prevent a painful viral infection, it may also serve as a valuable tool in preventing cardiovascular diseases, which are a leading cause of death globally.

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