Common infections can contribute to cognitive decline and the risk of dementia. How we protect ourselves in the long run
A new study links common infections to increased risk of dementia, suggesting they contribute to brain volume loss and may influence cognitive decline.
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New research suggests that common infections such as the flu and herpes may increase the risk of dementia by contributing to brain volume loss, particularly in areas crucial to memory.
It analyzed data from 982 participants in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging and found that six infections were associated with greater brain volume loss compared to those without these infections.
Influenza, herpes viruses, upper and lower respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and various viral infections are among the infections linked to an increased risk of dementia.
The researchers also found that a history of infections was associated with a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease later in life, particularly vascular dementia, which is caused by restricted blood flow to the brain.
People with a history of infections also showed changes in 260 proteins related to the immune system, 35 of which were specifically linked to changes in brain volume. The findings support the role of infections in dementia risk and identify molecular mediators by which infections may contribute to neurodegeneration.
The study linked the infections to an increased risk of dementia, a condition that has been linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study, published in JAMA, found that people hospitalized with an infection were 1.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with dementiacompared to those without severe infections.
The study also suggested an indirect link, suggesting that flu and shingles vaccination may reduce the risk of developing dementia.
The new study is considered “groundbreaking” because it highlights potential molecular pathways for how this link works. Severe infections can lead to prolonged hospitalizations, sepsis, and delirium, which can increase the risk of cognitive decline. They can also trigger a systemic inflammatory and immune response in the body, which has the potential to affect brain health.
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Studies have found that a variety of infections are associated with cognitive decline, but it is more common in those who require hospitalization for their infection.
Vaccines can reduce the risk of dementia, but it’s not clear whether keeping up to date on vaccines can prevent it. Routine vaccinations can help prevent serious illness from common infections, and avoiding infections is healthy for everyone, regardless of age.
Some data suggest that vaccines and antiviral treatments can reduce the incidence and severity of infections, which may decrease the long-term risk of developing dementia or cognitive decline.
Severe infections can cause “collateral damage” to brain cellsso getting the recommended vaccines is important for maintaining overall health. If severe infections increase the risk of dementia, vaccination would be a value-added benefit.
The study, published in Nature Aging, suggests that severe infections, including the flu, herpes and respiratory tract infections, are linked to accelerated brain atrophy and an increased risk of dementia years later.
The research provides a useful data set and suggests that vaccines are the most effective protection against acute and post-infectious effects. The study found that six types of infections, including influenza, herpes and respiratory tract infections, were associated with accelerated brain volume loss, particularly in the temporal lobe, which is implicated in Alzheimer’s disease.
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Well, well, well! It seems like common infections are brazenly stepping into the spotlight, waving their hands and demanding our attention, all while whispering sweet nothings about cognitive decline and dementia. Who knew our colds and flus were double agents in the game of health?
According to a new study—and no, this isn’t just a casual tweet from your mate in the pub—it actually links common infections like the flu and herpes to a cheeky little increase in dementia risk. Think of it as the infections’ way of saying, “Oh, you thought I was just here for a quick visit? Nope, I’m unpacking and sticking around for the long term!”
The researchers dove into the data of 982 participants from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, and lo and behold, they unearthed connections between six infections and brain volume loss. We’re talking about influenza, herpes viruses, and respiratory infections—clearly, they all decided to throw a wild party in our heads, and guess what? They brought along the snacks of cognitive decline!
Now before you mock the flu for being a bit of a nuisance, it turns out that it could actually be a rather nefarious villain. Those infected with these common invaders were found to be 1.7 times more likely to develop dementia later in life, particularly vascular dementia. Who knew your average cold could turn into such a dramatic twist in a soap opera plot?
The study isn’t shy about its findings; they report changes in a staggering 260 proteins linked to the immune system, with 35 specifically tied to the dreaded brain volume alterations. Clearly, those proteins were busy networking, and their business doesn’t seem to include preserving our brain health!
And don’t think this is just the stuff of conspiracy theorists! This research has been published in JAMA, making it officially “groundbreaking”—like when you find out your favorite band is reuniting. It sheds light on how infections could set off a cascade of inflammation and immune responses that might jeopardize brain health faster than you can say “antibody.”
But wait, there’s more! The study suggests what could be a rather brilliant plan involving vaccinations. That’s right; it might not just be grandma telling you to get your flu shot—there’s potential scientific backing here! The researchers hint that vaccinations could very well be your best armor against this unexpected onslaught of cognitive decline caused by infections.
Let’s not ignore the silver lining: while infections may be a pesky problem, vaccines could be the shining knights in armor we didn’t know we required. They’re potentially our best bet at keeping the cavities of our minds intact, which is a fantastic notion—unless, of course, you’re planning to forget where you left your keys!
In summary, while we all love a good laugh about catching a bug, it seems that ignoring our health during cold and flu season might just be the plot twist nobody saw coming. So, let’s keep our vaccinations up to date because a healthy immune system just might give our brains the fighting chance they deserve. And who knows, you might even save a few neurons along the way!
Stay safe, stay healthy, and remember: when it comes to infections and your brain, it’s best not to just roll with the punches. Get that vaccine!
**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Neuroimmunologist**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Dr. Carter! Thank you for joining us today to discuss this fascinating new research linking common infections to an increased risk of dementia. Can you start by summarizing the key findings of this study?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely! The study analyzed data from nearly 1,000 participants in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging and found significant associations between several common infections—specifically influenza, herpes viruses, and respiratory infections—and brain volume loss. This loss is particularly impactful in regions of the brain crucial for memory. Those with a history of these infections were found to be 1.7 times more likely to develop dementia, especially vascular dementia, later in life.
**Interviewer:** That’s quite significant. How do these infections contribute to cognitive decline?
**Dr. Carter:** Great question. The researchers discovered that infections can trigger inflammatory responses in the body, which may affect brain health. More specifically, they identified changes in over 260 proteins associated with the immune response, with 35 of those proteins linked directly to brain volume changes. In essence, these infections may be provoking a systemic inflammatory reaction that can lead to neurodegeneration over time.
**Interviewer:** With such alarming connections, what measures can individuals take to protect themselves from these infections, especially as they age?
**Dr. Carter:** Staying up to date with vaccinations is one of the most effective strategies. Vaccines for influenza and shingles, for example, can help prevent severe infections that might lead to cognitive decline. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene practices, leading a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and managing stress can bolster overall immune health.
**Interviewer:** So vaccination plays a crucial role. What else can the general public do to reduce their risk?
**Dr. Carter:** It’s essential to recognize that while we can’t completely avoid infections, we can minimize our risk. Staying informed about outbreaks in your community, practicing good hygiene—like handwashing—and seeking medical care for persistent infections can be beneficial. Also, frequent health check-ups can help catch potential issues early.
**Interviewer:** Before we wrap up, any final thoughts on the implications of this research?
**Dr. Carter:** The findings underscore the importance of viewing infections not just as immediate health threats but as potential long-term risks for cognitive health. This study could pave the way for future research into how we can mitigate these risks, and it highlights the necessity of preventive health measures like vaccination. It’s a call to action for all of us to stay vigilant about our health as we age.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much, Dr. Carter. Your insights are invaluable, and this research definitely adds a new layer to how we think about infections and cognitive health.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me! It’s important to keep these conversations going as we learn more about the connections between physical health and cognitive function.
