The ever-expanding benefits of vaccines
It makes sense that getting kids vaccinated against rubella (German measles) does more than protect each individual child. After all, if a sick child infects a pregnant woman, she may miscarry or her baby may be born deaf, blind or with developmental delays.
But we're finding out more every day about how vaccines have benefits that were never anticipated. For example, a new study finds that when seniors receive the high-dose flu vaccine, their risk of Alzheimer's disease is dramatically reduced. In fact, looking at data on more than 200,000 folks ages 65 and older, researchers found that, over three years, the standard-dose flu vaccine reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease by 40%, but the high-dose flu vaccine slashed the risk by 55%.
In addition, we've known for a while that the shingles vaccine slows the development of cognitive impairment, and folks receiving it are 20% less likely to develop dementia over the next seven years than those who don't get vaccinated. Now, a follow-up study indicates the vaccine may also help slow the progression of symptoms in those already diagnosed with dementia. And the anti-HPV vaccine that was designed to prevent cervical cancer also prevents cancers of the throat in males.
Looking to the future, mRNA anti-cancer vaccines are being developed to target cancer cells without harming the body at large, and autoimmune diseases may also benefit.
So, if you are confused about the benefits of vaccinations, talk to your doctor and check out the extensive info in my book, "The Great Age Reboot."
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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